Often we associate the concept of renewable energy and its production with popular sources like solar and wind power. However, did you know that the movement of waves can also help produce alternative energy? That’s what we’ll explore here. This blog covers everything from how wave energy works to its types and applications.
How does Wave Energy Work?
It is generated by floating devices that move up and down on the ocean’s surface. Essentially, winds create waves, and in turn, these waves generate energy. As the waves move across the ocean, high-tech devices are used to capture these natural movements and produce power.
Don’t be confused about what is wave energy and how it works. It is the energy captured from the motion of ocean waves. The intensive vertical movements of waves hold a lot of kinetic energy, which is captured by wave energy technologies to perform useful tasks.
Where and For What Wave Energy is Used For?
The idea of using this energy dates back to 1799 when a Frenchman named Girard applied for a patent. Its concept is still in its early stages and faces some drawbacks that limit its overall expansion.
However, some regions already have or are in the process of installing wave farms. Some key farm areas that have installed this energy project are the United Kingdom, Korea, China, Portugal, the United States, and Australia.
Apart from producing electricity, the other known uses of wave energy are as follows:
- Desalination: It can be used to power desalination plants, which convert saltwater into freshwater. It becomes particularly helpful in regions with limited freshwater resources.
- Pumping and irrigation: It can run pumps with water for irrigation and other such agricultural purposes.
- Industrial processes: It can also be used to run industrial processes, such as the production of hydrogen, which is further used as a clean fuel.
- Maritime transport: It can produce power to run maritime vessels. Thus, reducing their dependence on fossil fuels and in turn, lowering their carbon footprint.
- Recreational and tourism: It can further support recreational activities, such as powering beach facilities and water parks. This will boost the growth of the tourism industry.
After understanding how wave energy is produced, and its application, let us see if it is renewable or not.
Also Read: Harnessing Ocean’s Energy With Spine-Like Wave Energy Converter
Is Wave Energy Renewable?
Yes, it is a renewable source of energy. In fact, as per the World Economic Forum, waves offer the highest energy density compared to other renewable sources like solar, wind, geothermal, and biomass.
Is Wave Energy Practically Feasible?
Yes, it is a promising renewable source that can significantly contribute to the pool of the world’s energy mix. But, despite various benefits such as the efficiency of wave energy, its abundance, and ease of access, its practicality is still being studied and developed.
The technology needs to overcome challenges such as energy production, price, and withstanding difficult ocean conditions to become commercially viable.
Cross-reference: A Window Into the Future of Wave Energy
What is the Cost of Wave Energy?
According to a 2019 report by the U.S. Department of Energy, wave energy costs can usually range from US$120 to US$470 per megawatt-hour (MWh) at a commercial scale. Meanwhile, tidal energy’s price can have a price range between US$130 to US$280 per MWh.
Is Wave Energy Good for the Environment?
Yes, it is. In fact, it can be incorporated into marine structures without causing major pollution issues. The noise and visual impact of this energy are also quite low. It causes little disruption to shipping or fish migration. However, using wave energy in new breakwaters may alter coastlines, requiring concrete structure removal eventually. To explore more such informative content, keep reading our blog posts.
Recommended: Advantages and Disadvantages of Wave Energy
