Infographic: Methods to harness wave energy

Wave energy is an irregular and oscillating low-frequency energy source that can be converted to electricity and added to the electric utility grid.

The energy in waves comes from the movement of the ocean and changing heights and speed of the swells. The energy of motion in waves is tremendous, and can be harnessed to produce power.

Ocean wave energy technologies rely on the up-and-down motion of waves to generate electricity.

The infographic below shows different methods used to harness wave energy.

Take a look at the animated video explaining, in more detail, the ways to capture the energy of waves using point absorbers, overtopping devices and attenuators.

Source: OEC; Infographic: Sierra/Brian Kaas; Image: flickr/Julia Koefender