Wave Energy

What is Wave Energy?

Ocean waves are created by the interaction of wind with the surface of the sea. The amount of energy transferred and hence the size of the resulting waves, depends on the wind speed, the length of time for which the wind blows and the distance over which it blows (the ‘fetch’). Waves with power levels of in excess of 100 kW per metre of wave crest length can be created in certain locations.

Waves continue to travel in the direction of their formation even after the wind dies down. In deep water, waves lose energy very slowly, so they can travel enormous distances from their point of origin with minimal power loss. Coasts with exposure to the prevailing wind direction and long fetches tend to have the most energetic wave climates, such as the western coasts of the Americas, Europe, Southern Africa and Australia⁄New Zealand. Ocean waves are a very attractive and reliable source of renewable energy.