Oceanographic Design Criteria and Site Selection for Ocean Wave Energy Conversion

This paper describes an approach to site selection that considers not only the magnitude of the wave energy resource, but also the limitations on its utilization by seastates too calm or severe for sustained conversion operations. A figure of merit is introduced that compares this operational resource with the most extreme wave that a platform would have to survive during its service life. This approach is illustrated in evaluating the ocean wave energy conversion potential of 36 areas off the coast of the United States and in selecting an optimum water depth for siting an ocean wave energy conversion platform.