Why wave power isn't everywhere (yet)

Summary

In 1974, the Edinburgh Duck, a wave energy device, was invented but never realized its potential. Despite numerous attempts and over a thousand patents, wave power remains underutilized due to the complex nature of waves and the harsh marine environment. However, with advancements in technology and a renewed focus on renewable energy, wave power is re-emerging as a viable alternative, especially for offshore oil rigs and remote islands. As the industry matures, economies of scale and continued investment could make wave power a significant contributor to the global energy mix by 2050.

Takeaways

• 🦆 In 1974, the Edinburgh Duck was invented as a novel wave energy device that attracted global attention but never saw widespread implementation.
• 🌊 Wave power technology has been in development for at least 200 years with over a thousand patents filed, reflecting the complexity and diversity of wave energy capture methods.
• 🌍 The size and power of waves are influenced by wind strength, duration, and the distance over which the wind blows unobstructed, leading to larger waves along certain coastlines.
• 🔄 Waves transfer energy through circular motion of water particles near the surface, which is why wave energy devices are designed to capture this movement in various ways.
• 🌐 There are three main types of wave energy converters: point-absorbers, surface attenuators, and oscillating water columns, each with distinct mechanisms for harnessing wave energy.
• 💡 The Edinburgh Duck is categorized as a 'terminator', similar to a surface attenuator, which captures energy from waves passing through its structure.
• 🛠 The harsh marine environment poses significant challenges for wave energy devices, including corrosion from saltwater and the need for costly maintenance.
• 💸 High initial investment and competition from other energy sources, such as nuclear power and onshore renewables, have historically hindered the growth of wave power technology.
• 🌿 Despite the challenges, wave power's reliability and predictability make it a valuable alternative energy source, especially in conditions where wind and solar are less effective.
• 🌐 The potential for wave power is vast, with estimates suggesting it could generate 10% of global power by 2050, contributing significantly to the energy mix and the move towards net-zero emissions.
• 🏭 Recent developments include successful deployments in Australia, investments by the US Navy, and innovative approaches in Japan, indicating a resurgence in wave power technology.

Q & A

What was the Edinburgh Duck and why was it significant?

The Edinburgh Duck was a wave energy device invented by a Scottish professor in 1974. It was significant because it attracted attention from the UK government and the global press due to its potential to generate clean electricity from the consistent and powerful waves.

Why did wave power technologies like the Edinburgh Duck not become widely adopted?

Wave power technologies did not become widely adopted due to a combination of factors including the complexity of waves, the hostile ocean environment causing corrosion and maintenance issues, high initial investment costs, and competition from other energy sources like nuclear power, wind, and solar.

How do waves form and what factors determine their size?

Waves form when wind blows over the ocean, and the friction between the moving air and the water surface causes ripples that grow into waves. The size of the waves depends on the strength of the wind, how long and far it blows unobstructed over water, and the depth of the water.

What are the main types of wave energy devices mentioned in the script?

The main types of wave energy devices mentioned are point-absorbers, surface attenuators, and oscillating water columns. The Edinburgh Duck belongs to a category called terminators, similar to surface attenuators.

What are the challenges faced by wave energy devices in real-world conditions?

Wave energy devices face challenges such as the corrosive nature of salt water, marine creatures colonizing the devices, high maintenance costs, and the need for divers, boats, and platforms for underwater maintenance.

Why did wave power lose out to other energy sources in the past?

Wave power lost out to other energy sources like nuclear power and onshore renewables (wind and solar) due to higher costs, reliability issues, and a lack of sustained funding and support during critical periods of development.

What role does wave power have in the current energy crisis and the push for net-zero emissions?

Wave power can play a significant role in the current energy crisis and the push for net-zero emissions by providing a reliable and predictable source of energy, especially during times when solar and wind are not available, and by offering a high power-to-space ratio compared to wind turbines.

What are some of the recent developments and investments in wave power technology?

Recent developments include successful testing of devices in Australia, investments by the US Navy, and innovative approaches in Japan. In 2021, Europe saw a threefold increase in wave power capacity installation, and both public and private investments rose significantly.

How does wave power's environmental impact compare to other renewable energy sources?

While some wave energy devices could potentially disturb the seafloor habitat and create noise, early indications suggest that the overall environmental impact is relatively low, especially considering that most devices float with the current and are unlikely to collide with marine mammals.

What are some potential markets and applications for wave power in the future?

Potential markets for wave power include offshore oil rigs, islands lacking grid connection, and the aquaculture industry. Wave power can also be combined with offshore wind and solar panels to create a diverse and sustainable energy mix.

What does the future hold for wave power in terms of global energy production?

The future of wave power looks promising, with estimates suggesting that by 2050 it could generate 10% of global power. The industry needs continued support, investment, and time to test and refine technologies to bring down costs and increase efficiency.