Tidal energy is no longer a niche concept—it’s proving its strength, literally, in the face of storms. As governments scramble to meet climate goals and private capital hunts for stable green returns, a new tide is turning. This article dives into the surge of investor interest, the global projects leading the charge, and the unexpected event that accelerated momentum in this rapidly scaling sector.
Investor appetite for marine energy is growing fast, driven by a desire for reliable, renewable power sources that deliver consistent returns. Unlike solar or wind, tidal power offers unmatched predictability thanks to the dependable rhythm of ocean tides. Over the past decade, this characteristic has spurred increased investment in both pilot programmes and full-scale commercial ventures across the globe.
Several key dynamics are fuelling this shift. International climate obligations are pushing governments to back lower-emission solutions, while technological progress is reducing costs and improving efficiency. Public funding through grants and incentives is being matched by a sharp uptick in private sector interest, including from major energy firms and forward-looking investment funds.
Scotland is at the forefront of this wave. As a global pioneer in ocean energy, it has created an ideal ecosystem for innovation. The European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) plays a central role in advancing tidal technology, while the MeyGen project—currently the world’s largest tidal energy park—has become a landmark for the industry.
Across the Atlantic, Canada’s Bay of Fundy offers another hotspot for development. With some of the planet’s most powerful tides, it has become a natural laboratory for marine energy. FORCE (Fundy Ocean Research Centre for Energy) has been instrumental in testing next-generation turbines in this demanding environment, attracting attention from innovators and investors alike.
A turning point came during a turbine trial off the coast of Scotland, where an intense storm became a surprising showcase. Despite brutal weather, the system continued to generate power flawlessly. Observing this, a visiting group of investors gained immediate confidence in the technology’s commercial potential. This real-world proof of resilience unlocked a new wave of funding and propelled further development of the project.
Looking ahead, tidal energy’s prospects appear bright. Efficiency gains in turbine design promise even greater energy capture, while global partnerships are shaping new commercial models. The rise of digital monitoring tools will streamline operations and lower maintenance costs, and pro-renewable policies are expected to accelerate the rollout of infrastructure.
Tidal energy is no longer an emerging concept—it’s a tested, scalable solution aligned with both environmental and economic imperatives.
SAE Renewables Limited (LON:SAE) was founded in 2005 as a supplier of tidal stream turbines, SAE quickly grew to include development of tidal stream projects and is the majority owner of MeyGen, the world’s largest tidal stream energy project.
