Power from the Sea

This paper presents a brief account of the attempts made by inventor/researchers in Australia, United Kingdom and Japan to generate electric power from the sea. Using 'Linear Wave Theory' a power formula was derived, showing the maximum power that can be extracted from sea waves in deep water at a given locality. A new wave energy conversion device developed by the writer which at present is subject to a patent application is proposed. The theory on which this device is based, can be divided into two parts: to trap the potential energy of sea waves and convert that power into electrical energy, and to attach the chambers enclosing turbo-generators to a stable floating platform moored some distance from the coast in the open sea. The main dimensions of the converter were obtained from a preliminary design based on an assumed sea and mooring depth using high tensile steel. A hydro-electric analysis has shown that this converter can supply 4,000 kW of mechanical power for the generation of electricity. An estimate of cost to construct this sea-electric project including model testing is indicated. This wave energy converter is cheaper to construct and operate than similar devices proposed by others because the 'pneumatic stage' is eliminated and existing turbo-generator technology can be utilised.