Spiralis Energy says it is hopeful it can get its wave generator in the water to test its resilience against winter storms.

The CEO of Spiralis Energy, Guy Levene, says the company remains on track to deploy the Axial Skelter, a screw like device, off Alderney this winter.

It is to test its survivability in the rough seas and large tidal movements experienced there.

Mr Levene says the latest government auction of clean energy projects is helping pave the way for tidal:

He says the strike price, at £172 per MW, is positive in making tidal affordable and competitive.

This means that if the market price of electricity falls below this level, the government steps in to make up the shortfall. If it goes above, then the generator pays back the difference. It is this financial security that spurs investors to put money into renewable energy.   

Despite being upbeat, Me Levene says wave energy generation is still at a very early stage:

"There is still some way to go if tidal is to compete against wind and solar, even when tidal power has the advantage of predictability."

He says things are looking positive for Spiralis Energy:

"We remain on track to bid for contracts in the AR7 CfD round next March/April and we are confident that the predicted strike price next year will comfortably provide us with the head room to finalise our development and deliver on time."