UK Energy Minister Brian Wilson has announced government funding of up to US$3.4M to support the development and demonstration of a series of new wave energy devices off the Western Isles of Scotland. The award will be made to Wavegen, based in Inverness, Scotland, following finalisation of the projects technical assessment by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The funding offer will be based on three devices, located in shallow waters and based on an extension of the oscillating water column principles already demonstrated onshore. 'I am a strong supporter of wave energy and am determined to ensure that the UK remains the world leader as the technology takes off,' said Wilson. 'Wavegen has submitted a very exciting proposal for DTI funding and I am convinced it can make a major contribution to the development of this new industry.'
