Wave power is the transport of energy by ocean surface waves, and the capture of that energy to do useful work – for example, electricity generation, water desalination, or the pumping of water (into reservoirs). Machinery able to exploit wave power is generally known as a wave energy converter (WEC).
Wave power is distinct from the diurnal flux of tidal power and the steady gyre of ocean currents. Wave-power generation is not currently a widely employed commercial technology, although there have been attempts to use it since at least 1890. In 2008, the first experimental wave farm was opened in Portugal, at the Aguçadoura Wave Park. The major competitor of wave power is offshore wind power.
Read more about Wave Power: Physical Concepts, History, Modern Technology, Potential, Challenges, Patents
Famous quotes containing the words wave and/or power:
“Down the blue night the unending columns press
In noiseless tumult, break and wave and flow,”
—Rupert Brooke (1887–1915)
“Rocked in the cradle of the deep
I lay me down in peace to sleep;
Secure I rest upon the wave,
For Thou, O Lord! hast power to save.”
—Emma Hart Willard (1787–1870)