The Department of Economic Development has announced its intention to hold a licensing round to select potential partners interested in offshore energy generation in Manx waters.

The announcement took place during the Offshore Renewable Energy Breakfast event organised by the Department of Economic Development as part of the International Festival for Business 2016.

This follows the Department’s recent appointment of the British Geological Society as technical advisors to assist with exploration for hydrocarbon (gas) in Isle of Man marine waters.

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Department Member with responsibility for Clean Tech commented:

‘It is a great pleasure to announce this next exciting step for Manx energy generation. Over 80% of Manx territory lies beneath the sea and it is vital for the Island’s future that we carefully consider how best to sustainably leverage our amazing natural resources.’

Dr Ken Milne, Director of Energy and Support Services, added,

‘We anticipate the round will formally open at the PROSPEX exhibition in London in December 2016, where the Department will promote the potential of Isle of Man waters and invite suitably qualified applicants to bid for acreage. It is expected that the round will close coincident with the closure of the UK’s 30th round (which is anticipated to include the UK’s Irish Sea area) mid-2017, and will thus provide the opportunity for exploration teams to take a holistic view of the potential of the region.’