A model of wave energy converters was launched at Marsascala yesterday amid plans to deploy a structure off Gozo to convert wave power into electrical energy.

Dexawave Energy Malta successfully launched the scaled down energy converters off Żonqor Point in the presence of the media.

Together with its high-tech wave data collecting instruments off Gozo, the scale model will further test the company’s concept of wave energy harnessing in Mediterranean waters. This is the final part of a plan of comprehensive tests by Dexawave Energy Malta.

Speaking to the media, Dexawave Denmark director Lars Elbaek said the project’s viability required two to three metre-high waves for at least 2,000 hours every year.

Should the project prove viable, Resources Minister George Pullicino said it would yield roughly five megawatts per wave energy converter constructed and deployed.

The farm would have minimum visual impact, so the design is low – just a couple of metres above the water – and barely visible from land.

The buoy used to monitor waves, which costs in the region of €35,000, was recently stolen but has since been retrieved, having been equipped with GPS.

The purpose of the seven-metre long model launched yesterday is to aid the company in establishing the parameters of a full scale converter, planned for early next year.

The project was conceived in 2009 during a Malta Enterprise business delegation visit to Denmark, when Euromed Eco Power director Noel Gauci and Mr Elbaek discussed the possibility of carrying out tests and considering a project in Malta to supply the Mediterranean with its converters.

The idea was backed by the Finance Ministry, the Resources Ministry, Enemalta Corporation and Malta Enterprise.

The newly set-up Dexawave Energy Malta then teamed up with the University of Malta.