IT has been looming over Lowestoft docks for several months and now a machine which could hold the key to mass production of electricity from wave power is on the move.

IT has been looming over Lowestoft docks for several months and now a machine which could hold the key to mass production of electricity from wave power is on the move.

The 16 metre-high Trident Energy wave power machine has been visible in the Small and Co boatyard since April and now it has been moved into the water ready to be taken out to sea.

The structure was rigged up to a crane and lifted into the water next to the boatyard on Wednesday where it will stay until tide and weather conditions allow it to be towed out to sea.

It will then be situated about five miles off the coast of Southwold and will remain in place for about a year while tests are carried out.

The model, which has been built in Lowestoft, is smaller than those ultimately developed for commercial use, which individually could provide enough energy for about 700 homes.

The technology behind the machine is simple, based on special floats which move up and down with the waves to drive generators which convert the motion into electricity.