Wales stands on the cusp of an extraordinary opportunity as the energy transition gathers pace, writes Luciana Ciubotariu, CEO of the Celtic Freeport.
At the Celtic Freeport, we see this potential every day across Port Talbot and the Milford Haven Waterway, where world-class ports, established industry and a skilled workforce are well placed to deliver the next generation of clean energy projects. However, ambition only delivers results when matched by execution.
Right now, the single biggest barrier to unlocking new energy storage and hydrogen production infrastructure in South Wales is not vision, funding or investor appetite.
It is grid connectivity. And if progress does not accelerate, some of this opportunity could be delayed or lost.
At Milford Haven alone, energy storage and industrial decarbonisation schemes representing more than £1 billion of potential investment are facing significant delays due to the time required to secure grid access — in some cases stretching beyond a decade.
This level of uncertainty can make reaching final investment decisions very difficult and significantly slows the wider benefits that come with them, from supply-chain opportunities to job creation, skills development and supporting infrastructure.
South Wales has earned a strong international reputation as an energy hub.
But to fully realise the opportunities of tomorrow, we must focus relentlessly on delivery: clearer pathways, faster decisions and coordinated action on grid infrastructure. Addressing grid capacity is not simply a technical challenge; it is a critical enabler of growth, investment and long-term economic resilience for the region.
