While most environmentalists place emphasis on the solar and wind turbine systems to generate electricity, another plentiful source of energy is often disregarded. The immense kinetic energy of waves in shallower waters possess can be converted into electrical energy by the means of several different methods. These methods are not only clean and nearly maintenance free, they have very little impact on the environment. Unlike hydro-electric dams which build up potential energy by storing water at higher elevations and then harnessing their kinetic energy as it flows down, wave-motion generators harness the already available kinetic energy of the waves.There are a multitude of different methods harnessing the kinetic energy of waves. They range from a turbine like generator that uses the motion of the air as it is disturbed by the waves, a jet engine turbine design that uses the force of the water to drive turbines, to an underwater station that uses an arm that extends up to the surface which is moved by the motion of the waves.
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However, the most common and most widely used method of generation is by using a floating platform that rides on top of oncoming waves. This pontoon is comprised of multiple smaller sets of pontoons each of which are connected to the adjacent one by a set of hinges. Inside each pontoon is a motor and a generator. As each pontoon is lifted and dropped back down by the motion, which in turn is transferred to pistons attached to the hinges and powers the turbine.The turbine then rotates the armature of the motor which produces an electric current which is sent to the power grid.
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Video demonstration of pontoon-type wave power generation
Major advantages of wave power is that it is a renewable energy source, since waves are generated by gravitational force from the moon and partial influence from wind. So long as there is a body of water it will generate energy indefinitely. It also creates very little pollution, and has the potential to displace 1-2 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year. Noise pollution is the type of major pollution that this technology would output, however as the waves are generally loud themselves, this is not a concern.
Obvious disadvantages of wave power is that it is very area dependant, similar to wind turbines. Other disadvantages also include inconsistent energy production, as strong tides only occur when the moon is closest to the earth, and when there are strong winds. When the ocean is calm so to is the power generator. Not to mention the enormous feat that would have to take place in order to install the generators along the coastline.
“Energy Resources: Wave Power”, Darvill.clara.net, May 18, 2011
Retrieved on June 6th, 2011 from:
http://www.darvill.clara.net/altenerg/wave.htm
“Ocean Wave Power” United States Department of Energy. n.d.
Retrieved on June 6, 2011 from:
http://www.energysavers.gov/renewable_energy/ocean/index.cfm/mytopic=50009
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