Wave Energy

There are now numerous countries taking advantage of wave energy. These are all presented in this chapter. There are various concepts of generating energy from waves, presented as follows: (a) point absorber buoy, (b) surface attenuator, (c) oscillating wave surge converter, (d) oscillating water column, (e) overtopping devices, and (f) submerged pressure differential. Illustrations of all these systems are presented. The other common types of currently deployed wave energy converters are also discussed and illustrated, which are as follows: (a) the hose pump, (b) the Salter’s duck, and (c) the Masuda buoy. To estimate properties of waves, a method for approximating wave height is presented using the concept of significant wave height. There are numerous example problems to estimate power from waves, including a simple economic analysis of cost returns. Unique designs using hydraulic circuits are presented. The beneficial and nonbeneficial environmental impacts of wave power are also presented in the chapter, including numerous advantages and disadvantages. The economic aspects as well as potential locations are described, including countries with wave energy studies.