The Highlands and Islands Enterprise network has welcomed news that Inverness-based wave energy business Wavegen has been bought by the European multinational Voith Siemens Hydro.

Stuart Black, chief executive of Inverness and Nairn Enterprise (INE), said:

"This news ends a period of uncertainty for Wavegen and offers the business the best possible chance to achieve stability and long-term growth.

"Voith Siemens is a major international player which has the resources to invest in the kind of detailed research and development that cutting edge businesses like Wavegen require.

"Along with my colleagues in Highlands and Islands Enterprise's renewable energy team, I am looking forward to meeting Wavegen's new owners at the earliest opportunity and establishing a strong working relationship.

"As with any local business which needs to make staffing changes, INE will also be able to offer employees who may be facing redundancy practical help to find new work or training opportunities."