Wave Energy
In the 1970's, two countries began to realise the potential that wave energy represented. Japan and England began to develop methods for utilising this resource for power generation. Wave energy generation devices fall into two general classifications,Fixed and Floating.
Fixed Generating Devices
Fixed generating devices, which are mounted either to the sea bed or shore have some significant advantages over floating systems, particularly in the area of maintenance. However, the number of suitable sites available for fixed devices is limited.
Oscillating Water Column
The Oscillating Water Column generates electricity in a two step process. As a wave enters the column, it forces the air in the column up the closed column past a turbine, and increases the pressure within the column. As the wave retreats, the air is drawn back past the turbine due to the reduced air pressure on the ocean side of turbine.