At QED Naval, we’re driven by a clear and ambitious mission: to unlock the vast potential of tidal energy through innovative, scalable, and cost-effective technology. As we reflect on the progress we’ve made – and look ahead to a future full of promise – we’re proud to share how far we’ve come, and where we’re heading next.
What We’ve Achieved So Far
Developed, Proven, and Patented Subhub & Tocardo Turbines
Our modular, self-deploying, seabed-mounted Subhub platform enables what we call “tidal array in a day” – using small, readily available vessels instead of expensive, energy-intensive heavy-lift ships. Subhub uses ballast and buoyancy for self-installation, enabling fast deployment and retrieval without reliance on specialist marine infrastructure. Its stable seabed-mounted design avoids the need for piling or fixed foundations, significantly reducing environmental impact, consenting complexity, risk and cost.
By keeping export cables static on the seabed and enabling full system retrieval for maintenance, Subhub cuts installation and operational costs by over 60%, while reducing environmental disturbance and insurer-classified risks.
When paired with our robust Tocardo turbines – proven through over six years of grid-connected, real-sea operation – the integrated system also boosts energy yield by up to 48%, due to the Venturi effect created by the Subhub hull and the passive-pitch, bi-directional blade design of the Tocardo turbines.
Secured 4.5MW CfD at Morlais
Through our project SPV, Mor Energy Ltd, we secured a 15-year Contract for Difference (CfD) under Allocation Round 5, with a strike price of £198/MWh (2012 prices), indexed. This underpins Phase 1 of our 30MW berth at the Morlais site in Anglesey, marking one of the most commercially advanced tidal projects in the UK.
The initial project will see the deployment of two Subhub-ID platforms, each carrying three Tocardo T-3 turbines. The project is valued at ~£25 million, with projected revenues of over £30 million during the contract term.
Demonstrated Operational Readiness
Subhub has been successfully deployed and recovered across 500+ nautical miles, with trials at key sites including Strangford Lough, Langstone Harbour, and Yarmouth. Our approach has been proven in real-sea conditions through the EU Interreg TIGER project, as well as the Dutch Government-backed Oosterchelde Tidal Power (OTP) project, which validated Tocardo turbines in high-flow, grid-connected deployments.
What’s Next for QED
Advancing to Utility Scale
QED Naval is now advancing to utility-scale tidal energy systems, developing the Subhub-UD platform and Tocardo T-4 turbines, designed to generate 1.5MW per unit. These next-generation systems are engineered to be competitive with floating offshore wind and emerging nuclear solutions – offering a scalable, low-carbon, and predictable alternative.
Technology Development Underway
Our focus now is on delivering a fully integrated, commercial-ready system by advancing four key innovations:
- Tocardo T-3 Turbines – Scaled from our proven T-2 series.
- Subhub-ID and Subhub-UD Platforms – Industrial and utility-scale, self-deploying platforms.
- Subsea Power Control Unit (SPCU) – Enabling at-seabed power regulation and removing the need for surface cabling.
- Rapid Assembly Modular Structure (RAMS) – Simplifying onshore assembly and reducing time and cost of deployment.
Looking Ahead to CfD Allocation Round 7
We intend to submit a bid into CfD AR7, as part of our strategy to expand our installed capacity at Morlais from 4.5MW to 30MW, deploying next-generation Subhub and Tocardo technology.
We are also looking to acquire another project at Morlais from Verdant Power
Building the Supply Chain and Partnerships
To deliver our growing pipeline, we’re strengthening our UK-based supply chain and strategic partnerships. Key collaborators include the University of Edinburgh, PPI Engineering, NIDEC, and Mainstay Marine. We’ve also secured operational hubs in Holyhead Freeport and our Gaerwen turbine centre, supporting local assembly and long-term O&M as we scale.
On the financial side, we’re working with Savills Earth Capital and are in active discussions with institutional investors to unlock delivery-stage finance and long-term growth capital.
The Future – And Why We’re Excited
We believe tidal energy has a pivotal role to play in the UK’s and global energy future – and QED Naval is uniquely positioned to lead that transformation.
Tidal offers predictable, baseload-capable renewable power, reducing dependency on imported energy and lowering grid balancing costs. As part of a diversified mix, it contributes to a more secure and resilient energy system.
Our technology will support coastal regeneration, create high-value jobs, and generate long-term GVA for the UK economy. With a project pipeline exceeding 300MW by 2035, we’re also exploring future applications such as floating offshore wind substations, hydrogen production, and offshore energy storage.
The future of tidal energy is bright. As we move toward Morlais Phase 1 delivery, we are laying the groundwork for even greater impact – including plans to expand through future CfD bids and exploring integration with hydrogen production and other subsea energy systems as part of longer-term innovation pathways.
We’re excited not just about what’s next for QED Naval, but for the tidal sector as a whole. The tide is turning — and we’re ready to ride the wave toward Net Zero, energy independence, and a greener future for all.