Wave Energy Conversion Device

Abstract

Ocean contains energy in the form of waves and tidal currents. Both can be harnessed to generate electricity. Differential heating of the earth causes pressure differences in the atmosphere which results in the generation of winds. As winds move across the surface of open bodies of water, they transfer some of their energy to the water and results in the formation of waves. The amount of energy transferred and the size of the resulting wave depends on the following factors:-a) The wind speed b) Time for which the wind blows c) The distance over which the wind blows In order to extract this energy, wave energy conversion devices must create a system of reacting forces, in which two or more bodies move relative to each other, while at least one body interacts with the waves. There are many waves that such a system can be configured. Wave Energy Conversion (WEC) devices can be characterized in terms of their location. These are:-a) At the shoreline b) Near the shoreline c) Offshore Various Wave Energy Conversion devices are classified as follows: Point Absorbers, Attenuators, Overtopping device, Oscillating Surge Water Column (OSWC) and Oscillating Water Column (OWC). Wave power devices extract energy directly from surface waves or from pressure fluctuations below the surface. Energy extracted from the waves is stored in generators. Wave energy can be converted into electricity through both offshore and onshore systems.