Honour for energy pioneer

Wave energy’s “founding father” was being honoured today by the university where he has spent most of his career.

Professor Stephen Salter, inventor of the Salter ducks, was due to receive an honorary degree from Edinburgh University this afternoon for his “pioneering” work in harnessing tidal power. The ducks, invented in 1977, are a device which converts wave power into electricity.

Professor Salter, who was awarded an MBE in 2004 and also has a personal chair in engineering design, has also been praised for his “invaluable” and “innovative” research in the development of renewable energy.

Dr Lincoln Anthony Wallen, head of animation technology at Dreamworks animation film studio, will also receive an honorary degree at the ceremony.