Recent progress in wave energy

This chapter provides valuable insights into the development of wave energy systems, including wave energy converters (WECs), power takeoff (PTO) systems, control systems, and energy storage systems. WECs transform the kinetic and potential energy associated with ocean waves into useful mechanical or electrical energy. Different types of WECs have been developed, including the point absorber, oscillating water column, oscillating wave surge, overtopping, bulge head, submerged pressure differential, attenuator, and rotating mass. Each type of WEC has its own specific characteristics that make it favorable or not according to the requirements and specifications of each project. WECs use various PTO systems, including hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, electrical, and hydro turbine systems. Recently, it has been reported that hybrid PTO systems, which combine different types of WEC’s PTO systems, have also been developed with the aim of maximizing energy conversion efficiency. The efficiency of a PTO system is influenced by several variables, including the conversion process, the load on the machine, and the control system. Each PTO system has its own advantages and disadvantages concerning effectiveness, dependability, and maintenance requirements.