What is Wave Energy?

Wave energy is a non-traditional form of energy that derives energy from waves in order to meet electricity needs in a way that is renewable, and environmentally friendly. The energy that is produced from waves could potentially supply the world’s electricity needs. The energy produced by breaking waves is estimated at 2-3 million megawatts. Wave power stations extract the energy from the surface motion of ocean waves. The consistency of this form of energy varies considerably on the amount of waves in the ocean. The three methods of harnessing wave energy are: floats or pitching devices, oscillating water columns, and wave surge or focusing devices. The energy collection devices are being develop to capture nearshore, offshore and far-offshore near-surface wave energy or pressure fluctuations below the surface of the water. In 2008, the first experimental wave farm was opened in Portugal.