Ocean Power Technologies Inc

Previous wording

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Current wording

Item 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Previous wording

Our solutions focus on three major service areas: Data as a Service (“DaaS”), which includes data collected by our Wave Adaptive Modular Vessel (WAM-V®) autonomous vehicles or our PowerBuoy® product lines; Robotics as a Service (“RaaS”), which provides a lower cost subscription model for our customers to access use of our WAM-V’s®; and Power as a Service (“PaaS”), which includes our PowerBuoy® products.

Current wording

Our solutions focus on three major service areas: Data as a Service (“DaaS”), which includes data collected by our Wave Adaptive Modular Vessel (WAM-V®) autonomous vehicles or our PowerBuoy® (“PB”) product lines; Robotics as a Service (“RaaS”), which provides a lower cost subscription model for our customers to access use of our WAM-V’s®; and Power as a Service (“PaaS”), which includes our PowerBuoy® products.

Previous wording

The Company provides ocean data collection and reporting, marine power, offshore communications, and Maritime Domain Awareness System ( “MDAS”) products, integrated solutions, and consulting services. The Company offers our products and services to a wide range of customers, including those in government and offshore energy, oil and gas, construction, wind power and other industries. The Company is involved in the entire life cycle of product development, from product design through manufacturing, testing, deployment, maintenance and upgrades, while working closely with partners across our supply chain. The Company also works closely with our third-party partners that provide us with, among other things, software, controls, sensors, integration services, and marine installation services. Our solutions are based on proprietary technologies that enable autonomous, zero or low carbon emitting, and cost-effective data collection, analysis, transportation and communication. Our solutions are primarily suited to ocean and other offshore environments, and support generation of actionable intelligence on a standalone basis or working with other data sources. We channel the information we collect, and other communications, through control equipment linked to edge computing and cloud hosting environments.

Current wording

Our mission is to provide intelligent maritime solutions and services that enable more secure and more productive utilization of our oceans and waterways, provide clean energy power services, and offer sophisticated surface and subsea maritime domain awareness solutions. The Company achieves this through our proprietary, state-of-the-art technologies that are at the core of our clean and renewable energy platforms, autonomous systems, solutions and services. The Company is involved in the entire life cycle of product development, from product design through assembly, testing, deployment, maintenance and upgrades, while working closely with partners across our supply chain. The Company also works closely with our third-party partners that provide us with, among other things, software, controls, sensors, integration services, and marine installation services. Our solutions are based on proprietary technologies that enable autonomous, zero or low carbon emitting, and cost-effective data collection, analysis, transportation and communication. Our solutions are primarily suited to ocean and other offshore environments, and support generation of actionable intelligence on a standalone basis or working with other data sources. We channel the information we collect, and other communications, through control equipment linked to edge computing and cloud hosting environments. The data collected by OPT’s technologies underscores the Company’s unique position as a system of systems provider. What sets OPT apart is its ability to enhance these data collection capabilities by integrating the WAM-V and PB systems. This integration enables the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning not only to improve data accuracy and operational efficiency but also delivery of actionable intelligence.

Previous wording

In November 2023 we announced that we have substantially completed our research and development phase and are primarily focused on commercial activities. We have built a suite of products (more fully described below) that we believe will be the basis for our current and future commercial success resulting in meaningful progress in orders, pipeline, and backlog. This pivot to commercial activities has enabled reallocation of headcount, resulting in approximately $4.5 million in annual run rate savings, and a material reduction in third-party expenditures. The majority of our employees are now dedicated to customer delivery.

Current wording

In November 2023 we announced that we have substantially completed our research and development phase and are primarily focused on commercial activities. We have built a suite of products (more fully described below) that we believe will be the basis for our current and future commercial success resulting in meaningful progress in orders, pipeline, and backlog.

Previous wording

Our DaaS solution is at the forefront of our strategic plan to be a leader in offshore data collection, integration, analytics and real time communication for a variety of important applications. For example, our solutions can track surface vessel movement for maritime border enforcement and illegal fishing interdiction, provide security for offshore wind farms and oil and gas fields, or provide harbor or port security as well as logistics support. We have the ability to support aquaculture and gather information on ocean currents, water quality, wind and other weather metrics, and map shorelines or subsurface areas. We also offer 24/7 monitoring solutions that can provide meaningful real time information, and long-term data collection and analytics for sophisticated applications across many industries and scientific applications. Additionally, the stability of our WAM-V® platform makes it an ideal solution to produce high quality sonar data in many sea conditions for subsea surveys. WAM-V’s® can also be outfitted with various equipment for the performance of marine infrastructure surveys, berth clearance surveys, dredging surveys, and mining pit surveys.

Current wording

Our DaaS solution is at the forefront of our strategic goal to be a leader in offshore data collection, integration, analytics and real time communication for a variety of important applications. For example, our solutions can track surface vessel movement for maritime border enforcement and illegal fishing interdiction, provide security for offshore wind farms and oil and gas fields, and provide harbor or port security as well as logistics support. We have the ability to support aquaculture and gather information on ocean currents, water quality, wind and other weather metrics, provide photography, and map shorelines or subsurface bathymetry, objects and activity frequently required for obtaining development and operational permits with environmental studies. We also offer 24/7 monitoring solutions that can provide meaningful real time information, and long-term data collection and analytics for sophisticated applications across many industries and scientific applications. Additionally, the stability of our WAM-V® platform makes it an ideal solution to produce high quality sonar data in many sea conditions for subsea surveys. WAM-V’s® can also be outfitted with various equipment for the performance of marine infrastructure surveys, berth clearance surveys, dredging surveys, and mining pit surveys.

Previous wording

In October 2020, the Company launched its DaaS offering in support of the U.S. Navy’s Naval Postgraduate School’s NPS Field Experimentation (formerly Sea, Land, Air, Military Research Initiative). In February 2024, the Company received additional funding from the Naval Postgraduate School for the year-long deployment of a PowerBuoy® in Monterey Bay. The PowerBuoy®, integrating our MDAS along with cutting-edge Satellite communication and AT&T 5G technology, will demonstrate its persistent surveillance and communications capacities in a maritime environment. This deployment marks a significant milestone in maritime technology, showcasing the potential of standalone at-sea infrastructure nodes to support diverse operational needs. We have further expanded our DaaS offering through field demonstration such as ANTX Coastal Trident 2022, as well as the Naval Task Force 59 for the Digital Horizon field exercise and the International Maritime Exercise (IMX) in Bahrain, Sulmara for survey services with our WAM-V® platform, and Phase I funding through National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program.

Current wording

In February 2024, the Company received additional funding from the Naval Postgraduate School for the year-long deployment of a PowerBuoy® in Monterey Bay. The PowerBuoy®, integrating our MDAS along with cutting-edge Satellite communication and AT&T 5G technology, will demonstrate its persistent surveillance and communications capacities in a maritime environment. This deployment marks a significant milestone in maritime technology, showcasing the potential of standalone at-sea infrastructure nodes to support diverse operational needs. We have further expanded our DaaS offering through field demonstration such as ANTX Coastal Trident, as well as the Naval Task Force 59 for the Digital Horizon field exercise and the International Maritime Exercise (IMX) in Bahrain. Additional DaaS contracts include Sulmara for survey services with our WAM-V® platform and Phase I funding through National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program.

Previous wording

In September 2023, the Company received an award of three separate Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Multiple-Award Contracts (MAC) from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). NOAA has selected OPT as one of several Multiple Award IDIQ contract holders to provide Uncrewed Maritime Systems (UMS) Services to NOAA’s Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO), Uncrewed Systems Operation Center (UxSOC).

Current wording

In September 2023, the Company received an award of three separate Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Multiple-Award Contracts (MAC) from the NOAA. NOAA has selected OPT as one of several Multiple Award IDIQ contract holders to provide Uncrewed Maritime Systems (UMS) Services to NOAA’s Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO), Uncrewed Systems Operation Center (UxSOC). Under these contracts, OPT will bring its expertise to utilize cutting-edge UMS to support NOAA in conducting vital marine resource surveys and research while also playing a pivotal role in enhancing NOAA’s meteorological and oceanographic observations, further advancing our understanding of the natural world. Finally, OPT will collaborate with NOAA to explore and characterize the depths of our oceans, contributing to the discovery and preservation of invaluable marine ecosystems.

Previous wording

Additionally, the Company was awarded a contract to provide scientific hardware delivery, training, and integration services under a subcontract for a U.S. government agency. This project seeks to identify and integrate sensors and systems and share data suitable for the full spectrum of maritime operations. We will provide the required hardware, hardware deployment support, software, software deployment support, integration services, surveillance and telemetry data, and associated training in support of a PB3 PowerBuoy® equipped with our MDA solution. The project will be deployed in support of security efforts to detect illegal, unreported, and unregulated (“IUU”) fishing, dark vessels, and human/drug trafficking in operation 24/7/365. As further discussed under “Commercial Activities,” the Company was awarded acontract in support of foreign law enforcement partners. This collaboration aims to protect vital marine species and combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities in critical habitats using our state-of-the-art uncrewed technologies and demonstrates unprecedented, networked surveillance capabilities and evidence collection.

Current wording

Additionally, the Company was awarded a contract to provide scientific hardware delivery, training, and integration services under a subcontract for a U.S. government agency. This project seeks to identify and integrate sensors and systems and share data suitable for the full spectrum of maritime operations. We will provide the required hardware, hardware deployment support, software, software deployment support, integration services, surveillance and telemetry data, and associated training in support of a legacy PB3 PowerBuoy® equipped with our Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) solution. The project will be deployed in support of security efforts to detect illegal, unreported, and unregulated (“IUU”) fishing, dark vessels, and human/drug trafficking in operation 24/7/365. As further discussed under “Commercial Activities,” the Company was awarded a contract in support of foreign law enforcement partners. This collaboration aims to protect vital marine species and combat illegal, unreported, and IUU fishing activities in critical habitats using our state-of-the-art uncrewed technologies and demonstrates unprecedented, networked surveillance capabilities and evidence collection.

Previous wording

The International Maritime Organization defines Maritime Domain Awareness (“MDA”) as the effective understanding of any activity that could impact the security, safety, economy, or environment related to and within our oceans and seas. Since 2002, the U.S. has had an active strategy to secure the maritime domain, primarily through the U.S. Navy. Furthermore, in 2020 the U.S. Coast Guard elevated Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, one aspect of MDA security, as the leading global maritime threat.

Current wording

The International Maritime Organization defines Maritime Domain Awareness as the effective understanding of any activity that could impact the security, safety, economy, or environment related to and within our oceans and seas. Since 2002, the U.S. has had an active strategy to secure the maritime domain, primarily through the U.S. Navy. Furthermore, the U.S. Coast Guard has elevated IUU fishing, one aspect of MDA security, as a leading global maritime threat.

Previous wording

We have designed our solution to provide detailed, localized maritime domain awareness that can be utilized for a wide range of applications across market segments. Our MDAS base hardware consists of a high-definition radar, a stabilized high-definition optical and thermal imaging camera, and a vessel Automatic Identification System (“AIS”) detection module. This hardware can be customized or supplemented by other solutions, depending on the requirements of our customers. These devices can be mounted on our products, such as our PB3 or WAM-V®, and then, utilizing integrated command and control software, data is sent to us and to our customers via secure communications channels. Multiple sensors can be used on a single unit based on the comprehensiveness of the needs of our customers.

Current wording

We have designed our solution to provide detailed, localized maritime domain awareness that can be utilized for a wide range of applications across market segments. Our MDAS base hardware consists of a high-definition radar, a stabilized high-definition optical and thermal imaging camera, and a vessel Automatic Identification System (“AIS”) detection module. This hardware can be customized or supplemented by other solutions, depending on the requirements of our customers. These devices can be mounted on our products, such as our legacy PB3 and NextGen PB or WAM-V®, and then, utilizing integrated command and control software, data would be sent to us and to our customers via secure communications channels. Multiple sensors can be used on a single unit based on the comprehensiveness of the needs of our customers.

Previous wording

Our MDAS processes data onboard our platforms (i.e., edge computing) and transmits the results to our cloud-based analytics platform via secure Wi-Fi and cellular and satellite communications. We anticipate integrating our MDAS solution into our WAM-V’s® to add mobile assets for patrols or interdiction and utilizing satellite communication to expand the availability of our data service. Surveillance data can be integrated with third party marine monitoring software or with our own MDA software solution to provide command and control features of a multi-platform surveillance network. As an example, one or more WAM-Vs® can be networked to our self-powered buoy, which acts as a central data and communication hub. These WAM-Vs® can significantly increase the range of our MDAS network solutions. The data can also be integrated with satellite, weather, bathymetric, and other third-party data feeds to form a detailed surface and subsea picture of a monitored area. All vessel video, radar, and track data are securely stored in our cloud, or the customer’s cloud environment and is accessible for as long as required by the customer for further analysis and reference.

Current wording

Our MDAS processes data onboard our platforms (i.e., edge computing) and transmits the results to our cloud-based analytics platform via secure Wi-Fi and cellular and satellite communications. We anticipate integrating our MDAS solution into our WAM-V’s® to add mobile assets for patrols or interdiction and utilizing satellite communication to expand the availability of our data service. Surveillance data can be integrated with third party marine monitoring software or with our own MDAS software solution to provide command and control features of a multi-platform surveillance network. As an example, one or more WAM-Vs® can be networked to our self-powered buoy, which acts as a central data and communication hub. These WAM-Vs® can significantly increase the range of our MDAS network solutions. The data can also be integrated with satellite, weather, bathymetric, and other third-party data feeds to form a detailed surface and subsea picture of a monitored area. All vessel video, radar, and track data can be securely stored in our cloud, or the customer’s cloud environment and is accessible for as long as required by the customer for further analysis and reference. We refer to these integrated Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance systems as Merrows.

Previous wording

The Company launched the first commercially ready MDAS on a test buoy off the coast of New Jersey in September 2021. The system includes our proprietary integration of sensors, hardware and software, supported by cloud infrastructure as well as having a web-based user interface that displays camera, radar, AIS and live chart data. We have successfully demonstrated the system multiple times for potential customers, including a showcase in San Diego Bay at the U.S. Navy’s Advanced Naval Technology Exercise.

Current wording

The Company launched the first commercially ready MDAS on a test buoy off the coast of New Jersey in September 2021. The system includes our proprietary integration of sensors, hardware and software, supported by cloud infrastructure as well as having a web-based user interface that displays camera, radar, AIS and live chart data. During the first half of calendar 2024 we successfully demonstrated the system multiple times for potential customers, including a showcase in San Diego Bay at the U.S. Navy’s Advanced Naval Technology Exercise, and remote demonstrations using assets deployed off New Jersey for potential customers active in the Mediterranean, South America and Middle East.

Previous wording

Our Autonomous Vehicles business incorporates the patented Wave Adaptive Modular Vehicle (WAM-V®) technology, which enables roaming capabilities for unmanned maritime systems in waters around the world. The first WAM-V® was launched in 2007 as a new vehicle class to deliver reliable autonomous surface vehicles to customers that could provide robust, real-time data collection and reporting. Our Autonomous Vehicles business also provides RaaS, allowing customers to lease WAM-V® robotics and access information from our WAM-Vs® while we maintain ownership and maintenance and repair responsibilities. Today, WAM-Vs® operate in ten countries for commercial, military and scientific uses. Our WAM-Vs® exist in three primary sizes of 8, 16, and 22 feet, however, many of the design components are common across the sizes, allowing for integration of different payloads and adaptation of the payload platforms for larger equipment. All sizes can be adapted to suit electric or liquid fuel propulsion methods.

Current wording

Our Autonomous Vehicles business incorporates the patented WAM-V® technology, which enables roaming capabilities for unmanned maritime systems in waters around the world. The first WAM-V® was launched in 2007 as a new vehicle class to deliver reliable autonomous surface vehicles to customers that could provide robust, real-time data collection and reporting. Our Autonomous Vehicles business also provides RaaS, allowing customers to lease WAM-V® robotics and access information from our WAM-Vs® while we maintain ownership and maintenance and repair responsibilities. Today, WAM-Vs® operate in ten countries for commercial, military defense and scientific uses. Our WAM-Vs® exist in three primary sizes of 8, 16, and 22 feet. However, many of the design components are common across the sizes, allowing for integration of different payloads and adaptation of the payload platforms for larger equipment. All sizes can be adapted to suit electric or liquid fuel propulsion methods.

Previous wording

The WAM-V® product line highly complements the Company’s business strategy and can be used inshore, nearshore, and offshore. This business continues to grow and is further expanding into core marine survey and maritime security markets in Europe, Asia, Oceania and the Americas. We continue to find ways to integrate Autonomous Vehicles with the Company’s existing platforms and service offerings and expect to take advantage of new synergistic opportunities as they arise. In addition, we plan to integrate the MDAS platform onto the WAM-V® to expand our MDA offering to provide a roaming MDA solution to our customers.

Current wording

The WAM-V® product line highly complements the Company’s business strategy and can be used inshore, nearshore, and offshore. This business continues to grow and is further expanding into core marine survey and maritime security markets in the Middle East, Europe, Asia, Oceania and the Americas. We continue to find ways to integrate Autonomous Vehicles with the Company’s existing platforms and service offerings and expect to take advantage of new synergistic opportunities as they arise. In addition, in connection with our Merrows offering noted below, we are already integrating data streams relating to all aspects of, on, under, adjacent to, or bordering on a sea, ocean, or other navigable waterway onto the WAM-V® to expand our offering to provide a roaming MDA solution to our customers.

Previous wording

During fiscal 2023 the Company introduced the RaaS subscription model for our customers to access our WAM-V’s®. Under this model we lease our WAM-V’s to our customers over a fixed time period or provide a specified number of use days, typically with a guaranteed minimum. This model provides a lower cost entry point for our customers to access our products, provides a try before buying opportunity, and allows our customers increased access during periods of increased need. The Company expects to benefit from the growing RaaS trend, providing greater visibility into predicting revenue and planning supply for demand, while providing our customers with flexibility and a lower cost of entry.

Current wording

During fiscal 2023 the Company introduced the subscription model for our customers to access our WAM-V’s®. Under this model we lease our WAM-V’s to our customers over a fixed time period or provide a specified number of use days, typically with a guaranteed minimum. This model provides a lower cost entry point for our customers to access our products, provides a try before buying opportunity, and allows our customers increased access during periods of increased need. The Company expects to benefit from the growing RaaS trend, providing greater visibility into predicting revenue and planning supply for demand, while providing our customers with flexibility and a lower cost of entry.

Previous wording

PaaS solutions deliver value to customers by utilizing our managed power platforms. We continue to commercialize our proprietary power platforms that generate electricity primarily by harnessing the renewable energy of ocean waves. In addition to offering our commercial PB3, we are adding solar power options to our next generation PowerBuoy® (the “NextGen PB”) and have the option of adding small wind turbines to supplement power generation. The NextGen PB includes versions with and without a wave energy converter (WEC), with the non-WEC version replacing our previous hybrid PB. Our focus for these solutions is on bringing autonomous clean power to our customers wherever it is required. Moreover, offshore data and communications networks require power to function, and our solution solves this need without requiring ongoing battery replacement or older technologies such as shore station power cables. Many of the lessons learned from the deployments of both our PB3 and demonstrator systems have been used to develop the next generation of PowerBuoy® systems that are based on modularity for WEC and non-WEC applications. The PB3 will continue to be available and supported in addition to the support provided to the NextGen PB once fully commercialized in Fiscal Year 2024.

Current wording

PaaS solutions deliver value to customers by utilizing our managed power platforms. We continue to commercialize our proprietary power platforms that generate electricity primarily by harnessing the renewable energy of ocean waves. In addition to offering our commercial legacy PB3, we have added solar power options to our next generation PowerBuoy® (the “NextGen PB”) and have the option of adding small wind turbines to supplement power generation. The NextGen PB includes versions with and without a wave energy converter (WEC), with the non-WEC version replacing our previous hybrid PB. Our focus for these solutions is on bringing autonomous clean power to our customers wherever it is required. Moreover, offshore data and communications networks require power to function, and our solution solves this need without requiring ongoing battery replacement or older technologies such as shore station power cables. Many of the lessons learned from the deployments of both our legacy PB3 and demonstrator systems have been used to develop the next generation of PowerBuoy® systems that are based on modularity for WEC and non-WEC applications. The legacy PB3 will continue to be available and supported in addition to the support provided to the NextGen PB, which was fully commercialized during fiscal 2024.

Previous wording

The NextGen PB is our future platform that integrates the lessons learned from the PB3 and our demonstrator systems. It consists of two versions, one utilizing solar and wind power and one utilizing solar and wind power plus wave energy conversion capability, to provide reliable power in remote offshore locations, regardless of ocean wave conditions. Both versions utilize the same spar shape, thus increasing modularity and decreasing part count and costs. The WEC technology in the NextGen PB is based on our ongoing Mass on Spring Wave Energy Converter (MOSWEC) development which has the advantages of smaller size, lower cost, environmentally sealed design, and increased energy generation capability. The prototype of the solar and wind PowerBuoy® and the prototype of the MOSWEC PowerBuoys has been tested off the coast of New Jersey and the solar and wind system was used during the MDAS demonstration for ANTX during fiscal 2023. We believe this product addresses a broader spectrum of customer deployment needs, including low-wave and nearshore environments, with the potential for greater product integration within each customer project. The NextGen PB is intended to provide a stable energy platform for our MDAS solution, and for agile deployment of other intelligence gathering surface and subsea sensors, subsea power applications, such as a surface communications hub for electric remotely operated vehicles (“eROV”) and autonomous underwater vehicles (“AUV”) used for mine counter measures, unexploded ordinance disposal, subsea acoustic monitoring, underwater inspections and short-term maintenance, and subsea equipment monitoring and control. The design has a high payload capacity for surveillance and communications equipment, including subsea acoustics, with the capability of being tethered to subsea payloads such as batteries, or with a conventional anchor mooring system. Energy is stored in onboard lithium ion batteries which can power subsea and topside payloads. The control system uses sensors and an onboard computer to continuously monitor the subsystems. The NextGen PB is designed to be able to operate over a broad range of temperature and ocean wave conditions. It has a 50kW-hour battery system which can be expanded up to 100 kW-hour energy.

Current wording

We believe this product addresses a broader spectrum of customer deployment needs, including low-wave and nearshore environments, with the potential for greater product integration within each customer project. The NextGen PB is intended to provide a stable energy platform for our MDAS solution, and for agile deployment of other intelligence gathering surface and subsea sensors, subsea power applications, such as a surface communications hub for electric remotely operated vehicles (“eROV”) and autonomous underwater vehicles used for mine counter measures, unexploded ordinance disposal, subsea acoustic monitoring, underwater inspections and short-term maintenance, and subsea equipment monitoring and control. The design has a high payload capacity for surveillance and communications equipment, including subsea acoustics, with the capability of being tethered to subsea payloads such as batteries, or with a conventional anchor mooring system. Energy is stored in onboard lithium-ion batteries which can power subsea and topside payloads. The control system uses sensors and an onboard computer to continuously monitor the subsystems. The NextGen PB is designed to be able to operate over a broad range of temperature and ocean wave conditions. It has a 50kW-hour battery system which can be expanded up to 100 kW-hour energy.

Previous wording

The PB3 uses proprietary technologies that convert the hydrokinetic energy of ocean waves into electricity. The PB3 features a unique onboard power take-off (“PTO”) system which incorporates both energy storage and energy management and control systems. The PB3 generates a nominal nameplate capacity rating of up to three kilowatts (“kW”) of peak power. Power generation is deployment-site dependent, as wave activity impacts power generation. Our Energy Storage System (“ESS”) has a capacity of up to a nominal 150 kW-hours to meet specific application requirements.

Current wording

The legacy PB3 uses proprietary technologies that convert the hydrokinetic energy of ocean waves into electricity. The legacy PB3 generates a nominal nameplate capacity rating of up to three kilowatts (“kW”) of peak power. Our Energy Storage System (“ESS”) has a capacity of up to a nominal 150 kW-hours to meet specific application requirements.

Previous wording

The PB3 is designed to generate power for use independent of the power grid in offshore locations. As ocean waves pass the PB3, the rising and falling of the waves are converted into mechanical energy, which in turn, drives the electric generator. The power electronics system then conditions the electrical output which is stored within the ESS.

Current wording

The legacy PB3 is designed to generate power for use independent of the power grid in offshore locations. As ocean waves pass the legacy PB3, the rising and falling of the waves are converted into mechanical energy, which in turn, drives the electric generator. The power electronics system then conditions the electrical output which is stored within the ESS.

Previous wording

The operation of the PB3 is controlled by our customized, proprietary control system. The control system uses sensors and an onboard computer to continuously monitor the PB3 subsystems. We believe that this ability to optimize and manage the electric power output of the PB3 is a significant advantage of our technology. In the event of large storm waves, the control system automatically locks the PB3, and electricity generation is suspended. However, the load center (either the on-board payload or one in the vicinity of the PB3) may continue to receive power from the ESS. When wave heights return to normal operating conditions, the control system automatically unlocks the PB3 and electricity generation and ESS replenishment recommences. This safety feature helps to protect the PB3 from being damaged by storms.

Current wording

The operation of the legacy PB3 is controlled by our customized, proprietary control system. The control system uses sensors and an onboard computer to continuously monitor the legacy PB3 subsystems. We believe that this ability to optimize and manage the electric power output of the legacy PB3 is a significant advantage of our technology.

Previous wording

In November 2023 OPT divested its non-core strategic consulting team so that it can more fully focus its efforts and resources on the commercialization of its cutting-edge pipeline of products – particularly for the national security and defense markets. Going forward, the focus of our Strategic Consulting Services will be on delivering value to our customers through services which can be integrated in support of our broader PaaS and/or DaaS and RaaS solutions.

Current wording

In November 2023 OPT divested its non-core strategic consulting team so that it can more fully focus its efforts and resources on the commercialization of its cutting-edge pipeline of products – particularly for the national security and defense markets. Going forward, the focus of our Strategic Consulting Services will be on delivering value to our customers through services which can be integrated in support of our broader PaaS, DaaS and/or RaaS solutions.

Previous wording

Our strategy includes developing integrated solutions and services, including autonomous and cloud-based delivery systems for ocean intelligence, ocean data and predictive analytics to provide actionable intelligence for our clients. We believe that having demonstrated the capability of our solutions, we can advance our product and services and gain further adoption from our target markets. Our marketing efforts are focused on offshore locations that require a cost-efficient solution for renewable, reliable, and persistent power, data collection, and communications, either by supplying electric power to payloads that are integrated directly with our products or located in its vicinity, such as on the surface, the seabed, or in the water column. Our recent projects have been primarily focused on military and government applications.

Current wording

Our strategy includes developing integrated solutions and services, including autonomous and cloud-based delivery systems for ocean intelligence, ocean data and predictive analytics to provide actionable intelligence including our product offering Merrows. We also have a number of resellers and strategic alliances, including partnerships recently entered into in the Middle East and U.S., to advance our product and services and gain further adoption from our target markets. Our marketing efforts are focused on offshore locations that require a cost-efficient solution for renewable, reliable, and persistent power, data collection, and communications, either by supplying electric power to payloads that are integrated directly with our products or located in its vicinity, such as on the surface, the seabed, or in the water column. Our recent projects have been primarily focused on military and government applications.

Previous wording

Our recent market analysis reveals evolving dynamics within the offshore MDA sector, notably influenced by the technological revolution that enhances MDA capabilities through advanced, low-cost unmanned systems. This shift, highlighted by the National Plan to achieve MDA by the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) and the Government Accountability Office (“GAO”) in their 2022 ‘Unmanned Maritime Systems’ report on Maritime Security, is further exemplified by the United States Coast Guard’s March 2023 Unmanned System Strategic Plan. This plan outlines a vision to effectively employ, defend against, and regulate unmanned systems in maritime operations, underscoring the strategic importance of collaborative international efforts in maritime security. The United States is actively encouraging Pacific allies to bolster their maritime surveillance capabilities to counteract regional coercive behaviors, reflecting a broader trend towards democratizing technology to enhance global maritime safety, security, and prosperity. This aligns with our company’s positioning, as our products are well-suited to enable the Coast Guard and other maritime bodies to achieve their mission-critical capabilities in surveillance, detection, classification, identification, and prosecution, which are essential for executing statutory missions. Moreover, large defense contractors’ increasing interest in the “ocean data collection” space, through acquisition of small and mid-size unmanned and autonomous surface vehicle companies, signifies a growing market and application opportunities for our unmanned system offerings. Within the United States, our MDAS deployed on our modular PowerBuoys® can also be deployed domestically, enhancing our market size.

Current wording

Our recent market analysis reveals evolving dynamics within the offshore MDA sector, notably influenced by the technological revolution that enhances MDA capabilities through advanced, low-cost unmanned systems. This shift, highlighted by the National Plan to achieve MDA by the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) and the Government Accountability Office (“GAO”) in their 2022 ‘Unmanned Maritime Systems’ report on Maritime Security, is further exemplified by the U.S. Coast Guard’s March 2023 Unmanned System Strategic Plan. This plan outlines a vision to effectively employ, defend against, and regulate unmanned systems in maritime operations, underscoring the strategic importance of collaborative international efforts in maritime security. The U.S. is actively encouraging Pacific allies to bolster their maritime surveillance capabilities to counteract regional coercive behaviors, reflecting a broader trend towards democratizing technology to enhance global maritime safety, security, and prosperity. This aligns with our company’s positioning, as our products are well-suited to enable the Coast Guard and other maritime bodies to achieve their mission-critical capabilities in surveillance, detection, classification, identification, and prosecution, which are essential for executing statutory missions. Moreover, large defense contractors’ increasing interest in the “ocean data collection” space, through acquisition of small and mid-size unmanned and autonomous surface vehicle companies, signifies a growing market and application opportunities for our unmanned system offerings. Within the United States, our MDAS deployed on NextGen PB can also be deployed domestically, enhancing our market size.

Previous wording

We are focused on serving defense and security organizations, while also targeting offshore wind, science and research, and ports and harbors. Our pipeline continues to grow and comprises primarily of participants in defense and security markets. In addition, we continue to see a growing number of commercial opportunities as we witness growing interest from offshore wind companies for autonomous monitoring, surveillance and survey-related services during various stages of the project development cycle. Further, we are attracting interest targeted toward subsea applications, using proprietary sensor payloads for environmental monitoring and subsea intelligence. We believe that our buoys and WAM-Vs® are uniquely able to deliver these services either as a standalone solution or in combination with other systems. Furthermore, we are becoming a trusted provider of solutions for the hydrography survey market, especially for shallow water operations.

Current wording

We are focused on serving defense and security organizations, while also targeting offshore wind, science and research, and ports and harbors. Our pipeline continues to grow and comprises primarily participants in defense and security markets. In addition, we continue to see a growing number of commercial opportunities as we witness growing interest from offshore wind companies for autonomous monitoring, surveillance and survey-related services during various stages of the project development cycle, including initial permitting that can reduce risk in permit obtainment and legal challenge. Further, we are attracting interest targeted toward subsea applications, using proprietary sensor payloads for environmental monitoring and subsea intelligence. We believe that our buoys and WAM-Vs® are uniquely able to deliver these services either as a standalone solution or in combination with other systems. Furthermore, we are becoming a trusted provider of solutions for the hydrography survey market, especially for shallow water operations.

Previous wording

As noted above, we are now primarily focused on commercial activities. We have built a suite of products that we believe will be the basis for our current and future commercial success resulting in meaningful progress in orders, pipeline, and backlog. We continue to seek new strategic relationships and further develop our existing partnerships. We collaborate with companies that have developed or are developing in-ocean applications requiring a persistent source of power that is also capable of real time data collection, processing and communication, to address potential customer needs. For the nine months ended January 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company had two customers whose revenues accounted for at least 10% of the Company’s consolidated revenues, respectively. These revenues accounted for approximately 36% and 28% of the Company’s total revenue for the respective periods.

Current wording

As noted above, we are now primarily focused on commercial activities. We have built a suite of products that we believe will be the basis for our current and future commercial success resulting in meaningful progress in orders, pipeline, and backlog. We continue to seek new strategic relationships and further develop our existing partnerships. We collaborate with companies that have developed or are developing in-ocean applications requiring a persistent source of power that is also capable of real time data collection, processing and communication, to address potential customer needs. For the three month periods ended July 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company had two and four customers, respectively, whose revenue accounted for at least 10% of the Company’s consolidated revenue, respectively. These revenues accounted for approximately 84% and 73% of the Company’s total revenue for the respective periods.

Previous wording

Our third-party software companies are contributing to the Company’s MDAS by providing integration software, control software, autonomy and systems integration for the buoy sensor payload. In addition, they are assisting the Company with designing and building a customized data platform that supports the Company’s MDAS with sensor data feed management, secure communications management, a cloud-based infrastructure, and web-based user interface. The platform was designed with a flexible architecture that allows the Company to integrate new sensor technologies and third-party analytics capabilities and share MDAS data with customers and partners. During fiscal 2024, the Company has decreased its reliance on third-party software parties through increased support from its internal software team.

Current wording

Our third-party software company is contributing to the Company’s MDAS by providing integration software, control software, autonomy and systems integration for the buoy sensor payload. In addition, they are assisting the Company with designing and building a customized data platform that supports the Company’s MDAS with sensor data feed management, secure communications management, a cloud-based infrastructure, and web-based user interface. The platform was designed with a flexible architecture that allows the Company to integrate new sensor technologies and third-party analytics capabilities and share MDAS data with customers and partners. We also keep in contact with several offshore specialists and marine operations partners globally to support our deployment, maintenance, and recovery operations and projects.

Previous wording

During the first nine months of fiscal 2024, we have continued to advance our marketing programs, products, and solutions. We have substantially completed our research and development efforts, thus positioning the Company to increase its focus on delivering intelligent maritime solutions and services, particularly in the national security and defense markets. We intend to build on these efforts by introducing additional processes and making investments in appropriate human capital, operations, and manufacturing capabilities. In support of our focus on the national security and defense markets, we have developed a defense specific sales team, including veterans from the U.S. Navy, Swedish Navy, and U.S. Intelligence Community.

Current wording

During the first three months of fiscal 2024, we have continued to advance our marketing programs, products, and solutions (including Merrows noted above). We have substantially completed our research and development efforts, thus positioning the Company to increase its focus on delivering intelligent maritime solutions and services, particularly in the national security and defense markets. We intend to build on these efforts by introducing additional processes and making investments in appropriate human capital, operations, and manufacturing capabilities. In support of our focus on the national security and defense markets, we have developed a defense specific sales team, including veterans from the U.S. Navy and Swedish Navy.

Previous wording

Historically, demonstration projects have been a requisite step towards broad solution deployment and revenues associated with specific applications such as our New Jersey MDAS test array as part of our DaaS solution and to highlight these capabilities. Customers may want their own dedicated demonstration depending on customer needs. During a typical demonstration project’s specification, negotiation and evaluation period, we are often subject to the prospective customer’s vendor qualification process, which entails substantial due diligence of the Company and its capabilities. Such demonstrations are often a required step prior to leasing and may include negotiation of standard terms and conditions. Many proposals contain provisions which would provide the option to purchase or lease our PowerBuoy® or WAM-V® product upon successful conclusion of the demonstration project. The Company maintains a fleet of WAM-Vs® dedicated to demonstrations and has successfully demonstrated the capabilities of many of its solutions on its own or in customer-sponsored evaluation projects and remains focused on further demonstrations to build customer awareness and confidence and to drive revenue.

Current wording

Historically, demonstration projects have been a requisite step towards broad solution deployment and revenue associated with specific applications such as our New Jersey MDAS test array as part of our DaaS solution and to highlight these capabilities. Customers may want their own dedicated demonstration depending on customer needs. During a typical demonstration project’s specification, negotiation and evaluation period, we are often subject to the prospective customer’s vendor qualification process, which entails substantial due diligence of the Company and its capabilities. Such demonstrations are often a required step prior to leasing and may include negotiation of standard terms and conditions. Many proposals contain provisions which would provide the option to purchase or lease our PowerBuoy® or WAM-V® product upon successful conclusion of the demonstration project. The Company maintains a fleet of WAM-Vs® dedicated to demonstrations and has successfully demonstrated the capabilities of many of its solutions on its own or in customer-sponsored evaluation projects and remains focused on further demonstrations to build customer awareness and confidence and to drive revenue.

Previous wording

The Company is pursuing a long-term growth strategy to expand its market value proposition while growing the Company’s revenue base. This strategy includes partnerships with leading companies and organizations in adjacent and complementary markets. We continue to develop our PowerBuoy® and WAM-V® products for use in offshore power, data acquisition, and real-time data communications applications, and in order to achieve this goal, we are pursuing the following business objectives:

Current wording

The Company is pursuing a long-term growth strategy to expand its market value proposition while growing the Company’s revenue base. This strategy includes partnerships with leading companies and organizations in adjacent and complementary markets. We continue to refine NextGen PB and WAM-V® products for use in offshore power, data acquisition, and real-time data communications applications, and to achieve this goal, we are pursuing the following business objectives:

Previous wording

During the nine months ended January 31, 2024, the Company incurred a net loss of approximately $20.8 million and used cash in operations of approximately $24.7 million. Cash used in operations includes cash payments of the MAR earnout payable of $0.5 million and payment of the fiscal 2023 bonus for all employees. In addition, the Company has continued to make investments to build inventory, support order backlog and future growth.

Current wording

During the three months ended July 31, 2024, the Company incurred a net loss of approximately $4.5 million and used cash in operations of approximately $6.1 million. In addition, the Company has continued to make investments to build inventory, support order backlog and future growth.

Previous wording

The Company’s future results of operations involve significant risks and uncertainties. Factors that could affect the Company’s future operating results and could cause actual results to vary materially from expectations include, but are not limited to, access to capital, performance of its products, its ability to market and commercialize its products and new products that it may develop, technology development, scalability of technology and production, ability to attract and retain key personnel, concentration of customers and suppliers, pending or threatened litigation (including recent litigation noted above), and deployment risks and integration of acquisitions.

Current wording

The Company’s future results of operations involve significant risks and uncertainties. Factors that could affect the Company’s future operating results and could cause actual results to vary materially from expectations include, but are not limited to, performance of its products, its ability to market and commercialize its products and new products that it may develop, access to capital, technology development, scalability of technology and production, ability to attract and retain key personnel, concentration of customers and suppliers, pending or threatened litigation (including recent litigation noted above), and deployment risks and integration of acquisitions.

Previous wording

On November 20, 2020, the Company entered into an At-the-Market Offering Agreement (“ATM”) with AGP (the “2020 ATM Facility”). The 2020 ATM Facility was terminated by the Company effective June 2, 2023.

Current wording

On March 21, 2024, the Company entered into an At-the-Market Offering Agreement with AGP with an aggregate offering price of up to $7,000,000 (the “2023 ATM Facility”). On August 30, 2024 the aggregate offering price under the 2023 ATM Facility was increased to approximately $16 million. As of July 31, 2024, the Company had received proceeds of approximately $7 million under this facility and an additional $0.7 million between July 31, 2024 and September 13, 2024. The Company’s ability to raise capital under its shelf offering is limited by the provisions of Rule 415 of the Securities Act of 1933 (Baby Shelf). This limit is currently approximately $16 million.

Previous wording

These conditions and events raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for at least a period of one year from the issuance of these consolidated financial statements. The ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon the Company’s operations in the future and/or obtaining the necessary financing to meet its obligations and repay its liabilities arising from normal business operations when they become due.

Current wording

The Company’s current cash balance may not be sufficient to fund its planned expenditures through September 2025. These conditions raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. The ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon the Company’s operations in the future and/or obtaining the necessary financing to meet its obligations and repay its liabilities arising from normal business operations when they become due. The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a basis which assumes the Company is a going concern and do not include any adjustments to reflect the possible future effects on the recoverability and classification of assets or the amounts and classifications of liabilities that may result from any uncertainty related to the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Such adjustments could be material.

Previous wording

As of January 31, 2024, the Company’s backlog was $3.3 million. Our backlog includes unfilled firm orders for our products and services from commercial or governmental customers. If any of our contracts were to be terminated, our backlog would be reduced by the expected value of the remaining terms of such contract.

Current wording

As of July 31, 2024, the Company’s backlog was $5.3 million. Our backlog includes unfilled firm orders for our products and services from commercial or governmental customers. If any of our contracts were to be terminated, our backlog would be reduced by the expected value of the remaining terms of such contract.

Previous wording

For a discussion of our critical accounting estimates, see the section entitled Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2023. There were no material changes to our critical accounting estimates or accounting policies during the nine months ended January 31, 2024.

Current wording

For a discussion of our critical accounting estimates, see the section entitled Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2024. There were no material changes to our critical accounting estimates or accounting policies during the three months ended July 31, 2024.

Previous wording

The Company recognizes revenue when or as it satisfies a performance obligation by transferring a good or service to a customer, either (1) at a point in time or (2) over time. A good or service is transferred when or as the customer obtains control. The evaluation of whether control of each performance obligation is transferred at a point in time or over time is made at contract inception. Input measures such as costs incurred are utilized to assess progress against specific contractual performance obligations for the Company’s services. The selection of the method to measure progress towards completion requires judgment and is based on the nature of the services to be provided. For the Company, the input method using costs or labor hours incurred best represents the measure of progress against the performance obligations incorporated within the contractual agreements. If estimated total costs on any contract project a loss, the Company charges the entire estimated loss to operations in the period the loss becomes known. The cumulative effect of revisions to revenue, estimated costs to complete contracts, including penalties, change orders, claims, anticipated losses, and others are recorded in the accounting period in which the events indicating a loss are known and the loss can be reasonably estimated. These loss projections are re-assessed for each subsequent reporting period until the project is complete. Such revisions could occur at any time and the effects may be material. During the nine-month period ended January 31, 2024, the Company recognized approximately $2.6 million in revenue related to performance obligations satisfied at a point in time and approximately $1.4 million in revenue related to performance obligations satisfied over time. During the three-month period ended January 31, 2024 the Company recognized approximately $1.4 million in revenue related to performance obligation satisfied at a point in time and approximately $0.4 million in revenue related to performance obligations satisfied over time.

Current wording

The Company recognizes revenue when or as it satisfies a performance obligation by transferring a good or service to a customer, either (1) at a point in time or (2) over time. A good or service is transferred when or as the customer obtains control. The evaluation of whether control of each performance obligation is transferred at a point in time or over time is made at contract inception. Input measures such as costs incurred are utilized to assess progress against specific contractual performance obligations for the Company’s services. The selection of the method to measure progress towards completion requires judgment and is based on the nature of the services to be provided. For the Company, the input method using costs or labor hours incurred best represents the measure of progress against the performance obligations incorporated within the contractual agreements. If estimated total costs on any contract project a loss, the Company charges the entire estimated loss to operations in the period the loss becomes known. The cumulative effect of revisions to revenue, estimated costs to complete contracts, including penalties, change orders, claims, anticipated losses, and others are recorded in the accounting period in which the events indicating a loss are known and the loss can be reasonably estimated. These loss projections are re-assessed for each subsequent reporting period until the project is complete. Such revisions could occur at any time and the effects may be material. During the three month period ended July 31, 2024, the Company recognized approximately $1.2 million in revenue related to performance obligations satisfied at a point in time and approximately $0.1 million in revenue related to performance obligations satisfied over time.

Previous wording

The Company has two types of fixed-price contracts, firm fixed-price and cost-sharing. Under firm fixed-price contracts, the Company receives an agreed-upon amount for providing products and services specified in the contract, and a profit or loss is recognized depending on whether actual costs are more or less than the agreed upon amount. Under cost-sharing contracts, the fixed amount agreed upon with the customer is only intended to fund a portion of the costs on a specific project. Under cost sharing contracts, an amount corresponding to the revenue is recorded in cost of revenue, resulting in gross profit on these contracts of zero. The Company’s share of the costs is recorded as product development expense. The Company reports its disaggregation of revenue by contract type since this method best represents the Company’s business. For the nine months ended January 31, 2024 and 2023, the majority of the Company’s contracts were classified as firm fixed-price and the balance were cost-sharing.

Current wording

The Company has two types of fixed-price contracts, firm fixed-price and cost-sharing. Under firm fixed-price contracts, the Company receives an agreed-upon amount for providing products and services specified in the contract, and a profit or loss is recognized depending on whether actual costs are more or less than the agreed-upon amount. Under cost-sharing contracts, the fixed amount agreed upon with the customer is only intended to fund a portion of the costs on a specific project. Under cost sharing contracts, an amount corresponding to the revenue is recorded in cost of revenue, resulting in gross profit on these contracts of zero. The Company’s share of the costs is recorded as product development expense. The Company reports its disaggregation of revenue by contract type since this method best represents the Company’s business. For the three month period ended July 31, 2024 and 2023, the majority of the Company’s contracts were classified as firm fixed-price and the balance were cost-sharing.

Previous wording

We currently focus our sales efforts in key global markets in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. The following table shows the percentage of our revenues by geographical location of our customers for the nine months ended January 31, 2024 and 2023.

Current wording

We currently focus our sales efforts in key global markets in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. The following table shows the percentage of our revenues by geographical location of our customers for the three months ended July 31, 2024 and 2023.

Previous wording

Our cost of revenues consists primarily of subcontracts, incurred material, labor and manufacturing overhead expenses, such as engineering expense, equipment depreciation, maintenance, and facility related expenses, and includes the cost of equipment to customize the PowerBuoy® and our other products supplied by third-party suppliers. Cost of revenues also includes PowerBuoy® and other product system delivery and deployment expenses and may include anticipated losses at completion on certain contracts.

Current wording

Our cost of revenue consists primarily of subcontracts, incurred material, labor and manufacturing overhead expenses, such as engineering expense, equipment depreciation, maintenance, and facility related expenses, and includes the cost of equipment to customize the PowerBuoy®, WAM-V® and our other products supplied by third-party suppliers. Cost of revenue also includes PowerBuoy® and other product system delivery and deployment expenses and may include losses recorded at the time a loss is forecasted to be incurred on a contract.

Previous wording

Our engineering and product development costs consist of salaries and other personnel-related costs and the costs of products, materials and outside services used in our product development and unfunded research activities. Our product development costs relate primarily to our efforts to increase the power output and reliability of our PowerBuoy® system and other products, to enhance and optimize data monitoring and controls systems, and to the development of new products, product applications and complementary technologies. We expense all of our product development costs, including engineering product development costs as incurred.

Current wording

Our engineering and product enhancement costs consist of salaries and other personnel-related costs and the costs of products, materials and outside services used in our product enhancement and unfunded research activities. Our product enhancement costs relate primarily to our efforts to increase the power output and reliability of our PowerBuoy® system and other products, to enhance and optimize data monitoring and controls systems, and the development of new products, product applications and complementary technologies. We expense all of these costs as incurred.