The semi-submersible floating structure, chain-moored and anchored to the seabed, is described as “simple and robust”, with “very little hi-tech about it”.

Energy capture is straightforward too. A pair of hinged, glass-reinforced plastic “water wings” that flex with the horizontal movements of the waves turn four direct-drive permanent-magnet generators (PMGs).

All components have been built to a North Sea oil and gas industry “spec” of at least 20 years’ operation in the most hostile marine environment, although chief executive Julius Espedal envisages the device operating in moderate swells of two to six metres.

“Knowing