Survey of the State-of-the-Art for Ocean Wave Energy Conversion Systems

Published

February 19, 2017

Author(s)

Kathryn Butler, Marc R. Nyden, William G. Rippey

Abstract

It is possible to generate electrical energy from the motion of water due to ocean tides and waves. Oceans are a much more ubiquitous source of flowing water than river gorges, and the ability to efficiently harness this energy could potentially solve many of the world s energy related problems. The purpose of this survey is to build a base of knowledge in the area of ocean energy harvesting. This survey of the state of the art in ocean wave energy systems is one of NIST s project deliverables for the DARPA project Real-Time Control System (RCS) for Surface Wave Energy Harvesting, for which NIST is developing self-contained ocean surveillance systems. These devices (both stationary and mobile, e.g. AUVs) will require sources of electricity to maintain their operation for durations much longer than the several hours that can be provided by batteries. The energy of wave motion can be harnessed to supply these systems so they can operate continuously, perhaps for many years, without maintenance. Small generation systems with diameters of 2 meters or less can supply these relatively modest energy needs and are suitable for ease of deployment from small boats and airplanes.

Citation

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR) -

NIST Pub Series

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

Keywords

buoys, ocean energy harvesting, power take-off, wave energy, wave energy converters

Citation

Butler, K. , Nyden, M. and Rippey, W. (2017), Survey of the State-of-the-Art for Ocean Wave Energy Conversion Systems, NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD (Accessed October 10, 2025)