Wave energy
The energy contained in ocean waves can potentially provide an unlimited source of renewable energy. The interaction of wind with the surface of the sea creates Ocean waves. Waves are a dense form of energy, compared, for example, to the wind. Because water is much denser than Air, so the energy required to move a volume of water is far greater than that needed to move the same volume of air. Wave energy can be extracted and converted into electricity by wave power machines. They can be deployed either on the shoreline or in the deeper waters offshore.
Total 2003 capacity stands at 0.5 Megawatts.
One onshore project now operational is the LIMPET (Land Installed Marine Powered Energy Transformer) device, a 500kW shoreline oscillating water column on the Scottish island of Islay. An example of the hinged contour device is the Pelamis Sea Snake developed by Ocean Power Delivery. It will be the first deep-water grid-connected trial. The 750kW device is entering full scale testing in Leith docks in Edinburgh at the moment and is destined for Orkney. A number of the machines will be joined together to form a wave farm about 1KM square, providing enough power for 20,000 homes (30MW).
Future development
Wind generated waves on the ocean surface of the world have a total (estimated) power of 90 million GW. Because of the direction of the prevailing winds and the size of the Atlantic Ocean, the UK has wave power levels that are amongst the highest in the world. The wave energy industry, like the tidal one, sees itself having the potential of the wind industry but is currently around 10 years behind it.
Hydrodynamic environment
Devices could act as coastal protection and change the flaw patterns of sediment, which would require sensitive site selection.
Artificial habitats
Devices could attract and promote marine biodiversity.
Noise pollution
Any noise intrusion would come primarily from the Wells turbines of shoreline/near shore
Oscillating Water Columns, though these can be soundproofed.
Navigational Hazards
Adequate visual and radar warning devices can be built into most wave power machines.
Visual and environmental impacts
There may be some impacts associated with the line required to transmit electricity to shore and to the grid.