The new wave energy converter WaveCat: Concept and laboratory tests

► The concept of WaveCat, a recently patented wave energy converter (WEC), is presented. ► WaveCat is a floating, offshore WEC based on oblique overtopping, with a low impact. ► As a proof of concept, a 1:30 model was tested in a large wave tank. ► The laboratory tests allowed to gain insight on the importance of the configuration. ► The power performance was found to vary substantially with the angle between hulls.