WAVE POWER:A FINNISH COMPANY has designed a device to simplify the production of wave power and minimise the need for difficult and costly maintenance at sea.

The WaveRoller moves back and forth with the flow of the ocean near the sea bed, setting it apart from most other marine devices that generate energy from surface movements.

AW-Energy’s new product is based on an idea first suggested by a diver who noticed a swaying door on a shipwreck. It consists of a panel anchored at depths of 10 to 25 metres.

The company has signed a deal with Metso, another Finnish firm, to design and supply an automation system for the new technology.

It has raised €3 million in funding from private investors, which was matched by a grant from the European Union.

The company will try out a third demonstration model of its WaveRoller in the sea off Portugal next year.