UK-based wave energy R&D start-up Aqua Power Technologies (www.aquapowertech.com) is currently trialling its semi-submersible multi-axis wave-energy converter prototype on Lake Windermere in the Lake District.

The device has been designed to absorb forces from the peaks and troughs of waves in any given direction.

Later this year, the company is expected to deploy two fully operational units off the coast of Shetland and Orkney for pre-commercial trials.

The development and the trials of the company’s wave-energy technology have been supported through private investments totalling £300,000, an Innovate UK grant and funding from the EU-backed FORESEA programme — all awarded in March 2017.

Aqua Power Technologies plans to start selling its wave-energy units towards the end of 2018.