Wave-Hydro
Commercial energy from waves and tides is still under development. Technology to support it is costly to develop, and unlike solar, geothermal, or even wind, it is not a solution that a homeowner can implement.
But with innovative companies looking at Maryland as a location to develop this energy, you can be a voice for support. As we look at ways to generate more and more energy from renewable sources, we need to consider all sources. Just as the Chesapeake Bay has been a vital economic force for Maryland since the beginning, it also has the power to be a vital energy force. As we harvest crabs, rockfish, and oysters, we can also harvest renewable energy.
Considerations and Challenges for Wave and Tidal Power
Wave and tidal energy is undergoing exciting R&D in Maryland - but it is not yet commercially available.
- Efficiently converting wave motion into electricity. Waves have intermittent power surges, while most turbines operate on steadily streaming power.
- Constructing affordable devices that can survive storm damage and saltwater corrosion.
- Reducing the high total cost of electricity—including the primary converter, the power takeoff system, the mooring system, installation & maintenance cost, and electricity delivery costs.
- Impacts on the marine environment, such as noise and visual appearance.
- Potential for some installations to displace commercial and recreational fishermen from productive fishing grounds, can change the pattern of beach sand nourishment, and may represent hazards to safe navigation
Company SpotlightWaveBobSome of the world’s most energetic deep ocean waves can be found in the North Atlantic, off the western coast of Ireland. It was in that country’s town of Maynooth that the company WaveBob opened in 1999. Learn More » |