Wave power is another source of renewable energy, but one which does not currently significantly contribute to the world’s power requirements. Wave power stations are a rare occurrence as it is difficult to harness the energy of the waves. There are, however, new technologies which could change this situation.
The UK has the best wave resource in Europe and saw the world’s first commercial-scale shoreline wave power plant. There are effectively three types of technology to harness wave energy, shoreline being just one.
The shoreline variety of wave power generator includes an air chamber through which air is pushed when the waves move water into the chamber. The moving air then turns a turbine which in turn powers a generator. There are then two varieties of offshore wind power generators. A fixed or semi-fixed machine utilises the pressure differential in the water which is used to cause a fluid flow in a circuit which drives a turbine. The final technology alternative involves machines which utilise their buoyancy to cause movement as they move up and down on the waves. This directly or indirectly powers a generator.
There are of course some disadvantages to wave power, not least that the waves themselves are not consistent. All three types of system need to withstand rough weather and the onshore energy generators can be noisy due to the rushes of air. This is, however, not necessarily a problem as the waves themselves can be somewhat loud!
For more information on wave power visit the British Wind Energy Association at www.bwea.com or the Renewable Energy Association at www.r-p-a.org.uk
