The device, known as the SNAIL, is a tidal energy turbine platform designed to overcome one of the biggest issues in generating power from tidal currents – the inability to anchor to the seabed in strong tidal flows.

Conventional tidal energy devices require siting in water between 25-50m deep in order to take advantage of currents as well as remain tightly anchored to the seabed.

The SNAIL's reversible hydrofoils produce downwards force, anchoring it in place in locations where fixed structures would be too diffficult to install and operate. This means the SNAIL can be cheaply installed in deep and shallow water, acccording to the university.

“Use of the SNAIL will allow the development of small energetic sites, which would not have been accessible to more conventional fixing concepts,” said Professor Ian Bryden who initiated the original concept for the device.

The first experimental tidal farm, due to be launched in 2007, is expected to provide 5MW of energy or enough to power 10,000 homes. With The SNAIL is tipped to be an important part of the Scottish Government’s plan to have 18% of power provided by renewable sources by 2010 and 40% by 2020.