Wave Energy Is (Really, Finally) Coming For Your Fossil Fuels – CleanTechnica

Wave Energy Converters: A Promising Source of Renewable Electricity

Wave energy converters have the potential to generate 29,500 terawatt-hours of renewable electricity from the ocean annually. Despite a setback in the early 2000s, researchers have continued to design energy conversion devices in pursuit of this vast energy resource. The development of wave energy technology aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.

Aguçadoura: A Wave Energy Comeback

In 2008, Pelamis launched a €9 million wave energy project in Aguçadoura, Portugal. However, the project faced significant challenges and was ultimately discontinued due to funding issues and technical difficulties. Nevertheless, the rough waters off the coast of Aguçadoura remain an ideal location for testing new wave energy converters.

CorPower Ocean, a Swedish firm, recently completed testing its commercial-scale C4 device in Aguçadoura. The device demonstrated its survivability and ability to operate efficiently under various sea conditions, including extreme storm waves and calm periods. This breakthrough brings wave energy one step closer to widespread adoption.

Next Steps for Wave Energy Converter Technology

Wave energy conversion involves harnessing the kinetic motion of waves to generate electricity. However, the design and deployment of wave energy converters present challenges. One such challenge is the need for flotation systems, which become larger and more expensive as the size of the converter increases.

CorPower has developed a high-efficiency system that uses a pre-tension mechanism to pull the buoy downwards, allowing it to capture wave energy in both directions. This innovative approach reduces the cost and complexity of flotation systems.

With the successful testing of the C4 device, CorPower plans to make further improvements based on the lessons learned. The next deployment will focus on achieving full capacity and meeting the technical standards for wave energy converter performance.

Diverse Approaches to Wave Energy Conversion

Eco Wave Power, an Israeli startup, has taken a different approach to wave energy conversion. Instead of deploying devices offshore, Eco Wave Power has developed a port-side installation system that eliminates the need for offshore anchoring systems and sub-sea electricity cables. This innovative solution reduces costs and simplifies deployment.

The potential of wave energy is not limited to Aguçadoura and Eco Wave Power. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates that wave energy could generate 29,500 TWh/year globally. In the United States alone, the technically recoverable amount of wave power is estimated at 1,170 TWh/year, equivalent to about 30% of the nation’s annual electricity consumption.

Advancing Wave Energy Converter Technology

The United States is investing in the development and testing of wave energy converters. A new wave power testing facility has been established on the Pacific coast to assess deployment-ready devices. The Energy Department is also supporting the development of next-generation technologies, such as DEEC-Tec systems, which can harvest energy from various sources, including ocean waves.

The Energy Department’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory has developed a new testing platform called WEC-Sim, which allows researchers to simulate and evaluate larger-scale wave energy converters. This platform enables developers to identify design flaws and opportunities for improvement earlier in the research and development process.

The progress in wave energy technology aligns with the SDGs, particularly SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. If wave-based devices can capture even a small percentage of the available wave energy, it will have a significant impact on the transition to clean and sustainable energy sources.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
• SDG 13: Climate Action

The article discusses wave energy converters as a source of renewable electricity, which aligns with SDG 7’s goal of ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. It also mentions the development and testing of new wave energy converter technologies, which relates to SDG 9’s focus on promoting sustainable industrialization and fostering innovation. Additionally, the article highlights the potential of wave energy as a clean alternative to fossil fuels, contributing to SDG 13’s objective of taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 7.2: Increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix
• Target 9.4: Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries for sustainability
• Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning

The article implies progress towards Target 7.2 by discussing the potential of wave energy converters to contribute to the global energy mix as a renewable energy source. It also suggests advancements in achieving Target 9.4 by highlighting the development and testing of new wave energy converter technologies. Furthermore, the article indirectly addresses Target 13.2 by emphasizing the role of wave energy as a climate-friendly alternative to fossil fuels.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, the article mentions or implies several indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

• Share of renewable energy in the global energy mix
• Number of new wave energy converter technologies developed and tested
• Integration of climate change measures in national policies and planning

The article discusses the potential for wave energy converters to contribute to the global energy mix, indicating the share of renewable energy. It also highlights the development and testing of new wave energy converter technologies, suggesting progress in innovation and infrastructure. Additionally, the article indirectly implies the integration of climate change measures by promoting wave energy as a clean alternative to fossil fuels.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: cleantechnica.com

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