Top Countries Leading in Marine Renewable Energy (MRE)

The whole world strives to shift towards cleaner energy sources, marine renewable energy—sourced from the ocean’s waves, tides, and currents—is gradually attracting significant interest. It presents not only a vast, underutilized resource but also enhances solar and wind energy by offering more reliable generation. With rapid advancements taking place, various nations are emerging as leaders in this field.

The article examines the leading countries in marine renewable energy, showcasing their initiatives, innovations, and the tactics that contribute to their achievements.

1. United Kingdom: The Unquestioned Leader in Tidal and Wave Energy

Undoubtedly, the United Kingdom is at the leading edge of marine renewable energy. What accounts for this? It possesses some of the most dynamic coastlines in the world, especially in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Key Projects and Initiatives:

• MeyGen Tidal Project in Scotland: The largest operational tidal stream project globally.
• Wave Energy Scotland (WES): A government-supported initiative fostering innovation in wave technology.
• ORE Catapult: A national facility dedicated to offshore renewable research and development.

Furthermore, the UK’s supportive regulatory framework and strong governmental backing have allowed numerous marine startups to thrive. Consequently, it stands as a prime example of how policy, funding, and innovation can converge to spearhead a renewable revolution.

Moving from fossil fuels to tidal energy has become a crucial strategy for the UK’s net-zero objectives.

2. China: Expanding with Offshore Wind and Ocean Energy

Following closely is China, a nation that has swiftly advanced from a renewable energy follower to a significant leader. While offshore wind is the primary component of its ocean energy strategy, China is progressively investing in tidal and wave technologies as part of its larger decarbonization efforts.

Key Highlights:

• Zhoushan Tidal Energy Station: A landmark in East Asia’s marine energy sector.
• Substantial Offshore Wind Growth: By the close of 2024, China had installed over 30 GW of offshore wind capacity.
• Ocean Energy Research and Development Centers: Coastal areas like Guangdong and Fujian are evolving into marine technology hubs.

China’s approach stands out due to its focus on large-scale implementation, often advancing directly from pilot projects to comprehensive infrastructure. Additionally, its marine energy ambitions are closely linked to rural electrification and enhancing coastal resilience.

3. France: Advancing Tidal Turbine Innovations

France has historically been a trailblazer in ocean energy. It is, in fact, home to the world’s first tidal power facility—the Rance Tidal Power Station—launched in 1966. Since then, France has persisted in investing in cutting-edge tidal and wave technologies.

Notable Developments:

• HydroQuest’s Tidal Turbines: Implemented in pilot areas like Paimpol-Bréhat.
• Floating Wind Farms: The Atlantic coastline is currently being prepared for floating offshore projects.
• IFREMER Research Institute: A premier center for marine technology research.

With consistent governmental support and backing from the European Union, France continues to be a significant player in both technology development and the establishment of marine energy regulations.

Moreover, France’s strategically advantageous position along the Atlantic coast offers it unmatched prospects for tidal Stream Energy.

4. Canada: Capturing the Power of the Bay of Fundy

Canada is in a prime position to spearhead tidal energy initiatives, particularly with the Bay of Fundy, which boasts the most significant tidal range globally. This inherent benefit, coupled with robust governmental cooperation, is driving innovation across Canada.

Key Achievements:

• Fundy Ocean Research Center for Energy (FORCE): Canada’s foremost testing facility for tidal technologies.
• Sustainable Marine Energy Initiatives: Concentrated on modular and scalable tidal devices.
• Community-Driven Initiatives: First Nations and coastal communities are actively participating.

Beyond just technology advancement, Canada places considerable importance on environmental oversight and involving stakeholders, establishing a global standard for inclusive marine energy projects.

5. South Korea: Innovating with Tidal Barrages

South Korea adopts a distinct approach from other countries by concentrating on tidal barrage technology. The Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station, the largest of its kind in the world, exemplifies the nation’s dedication to ocean energy.

Strategic Advantages:

• Sihwa Barrage: Produces over 500 GWh each year.
• Korean Ocean Energy R&D Center: Promotes the advancement of wave and ocean current energy systems.
• Hybrid Strategies: Integrating tidal barrages with solar and wind energy solutions.

Given South Korea’s energy security challenges stemming from limited domestic fossil fuel supplies, its commitment to marine renewables has become a fundamental aspect of its national energy policy.

6. Norway: Shifting from Oil to Ocean Energy

Historically recognized for its oil and gas industries, Norway is transitioning towards sustainable ocean sectors, including marine renewable energy. Drawing on its engineering capabilities and maritime heritage, Norway is strategically advancing into offshore renewables.

Developments to Monitor:

• Wave Energy Experiments in Stad: Testing cutting-edge WEC (wave energy converter) technologies.
• Collaborations with Equinor: Blending oil sector expertise with clean energy ambitions.
• Floating Offshore Wind Projects: Hywind Tampen serves as a key example of dual-use technology.

Thus, Norway’s transition represents both a symbolic and practical shift, demonstrating that traditional fossil fuel nations can lead in marine energy advancements.

7. Australia: Exploring Wave Energy Potential

Australia, with its extensive and rugged shoreline, possesses remarkable wave energy capabilities. While still in the research phase, several promising projects are generating interest—both literally and metaphorically.

Key Initiatives:

• Carnegie Clean Energy: Advancing CETO wave systems off the coast of Western Australia.
• King Island Renewable Energy Hub: Merging wind, solar, and wave energy sources.
• Blue Economy CRC: Investigating synergies between aquaculture and ocean energy.

Furthermore, the Australian government is increasingly investing in ocean energy research, acknowledging the necessity for diverse renewable energy strategies in remote and island locales.

8. Portugal: Europe’s Wave Energy Pioneer

Despite its small size, Portugal is making significant progress in marine renewables. It was one of the first European nations to connect a wave energy device to the national electricity grid, demonstrating its early advantage in the field.

Leading Edge in Technology:

• Pico Plant in the Azores: A significant instance of wave energy integration.
• ENONDAS Test Zones: Marine energy pilot areas supported by the national grid operator.
• Cross-Atlantic Collaboration: Teaming up with research institutions in Europe and North America.

With regards to long-term prospects, Portugal’s west coast stands out as one of Europe’s most promising wave energy frontiers.

What Do These Leaders Share in Common?

While each nation pursues its own distinct approach, several shared factors can be identified:

1. Government Backing: Financial support, subsidies, and research and development investments are crucial.
2. Geographical Benefits: Accessibility to substantial tidal ranges or robust wave patterns.
3. Innovation Clusters: Networks of startups, academic institutions, and research facilities.
4. Environmental Policies: Clearly defined regulations that harmonize development and sustainability.

Collectively, these factors not only speed up technological advancement but also mitigate risks associated with investments in emerging energy markets.

Final Reflections

As the climate emergency escalates and energy needs increase, marine renewable energy presents a compelling solution. From tidal turbines in Scotland to wave energy devices in Australia, these leading nations demonstrate that with foresight and funding, the ocean can serve as a cornerstone of a low-carbon future.

Whether you are an energy advocate, a policy supporter, or a sustainability expert, monitoring these countries will reveal how the blue economy is influencing the upcoming wave of clean energy.