The Morlais Energy VR Experience is an innovative and immersive virtual reality application created to provide users with an opportunity to explore and learn about the Morlais Energy project. The primary objective of this VR experience is to offer an engaging and educational platform for users to navigate the Morlais Demonstration Zone, understand the various elements of the tidal energy project, and gain insights into the Environmental Monitoring and Mitigation Plan (EMMP).

Project Objectives:

• Education and Awareness: Create an educational tool in both Welsh and English to inform users about tidal energy, the Morlais Energy project, and its significance in addressing climate change.
• Interactive Exploration: Allow users to virtually explore the Morlais Demonstration Zone, experiencing sea bed turbines, floating turbines, mid-point turbines, and energy substations.
• Environmental Impact Understanding: Provide insights into the Environmental Monitoring and Mitigation Plan, demonstrating the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Implementation:

• Content Creation: The project began with extensive content creation, including realistic 3D modeling and interactive VR content for sea bed turbines, floating turbines, mid-point turbines, and energy substations.
• User Interface Design: The VR experience was designed with an intuitive user interface for ease of navigation.
• Environmental Monitoring Insights: The VR environment included a dedicated section to explain and showcase the EMMP, emphasizing the project’s commitment to minimizing environmental impact.
• Content Creation – EMMP Animation: A separate traditional animation was created to specifically address the Environmental Monitoring and Mitigation Plan, outlining the project’s approach to environmental responsibility.
• Educational Outreach: The VR experience was introduced to educational institutions, community events, and public outreach programs to raise awareness about sustainable energy.

Results:

The Morlais Energy VR Experience has achieved significant results:

• Users can now virtually explore the Morlais Demonstration Zone and gain a deeper understanding of the project’s various components.
• The VR experience has been widely embraced in educational settings, promoting awareness of tidal energy and environmental sustainability.
• The project’s commitment to transparency and environmental responsibility, as outlined in the EMMP, has been effectively conveyed to the public.