By Kari Williamson

The wave power project developed by Norway's Langlee for New Zealand-based Tangaroa Energy, received the financial backing from the New Zealand Government’s NZ$1.8 million Marine Energy Deployment Fund.

A 50 kW Langlee E1 test wave power device could be deployed off Stewart Island in 2013. The plan is to roll out a further three devices the following year.

Langlee Founder and CEO Julius Espedal said: “It is fantastic to have this funding and it will help to secure a sustainable energy future for New Zealand’s third largest island. We still have significant funds to find so we will continue our drive to attract other investors. Our Wave Energy Converter technology is ideal for the size of waves experienced around Stewart Island and will provide a clean energy solution.”

The New Zealand government aims to generate 90% of electricity from renewable sources by 2025. Around 60% of the country’s electricity is currently produced from sustainable sources including hydroelectric, geothermal and wind capabilities.