Georgeb:

Wave energy is superior to wind energy because it is a more concentrated form of energy that is more easily stored and is available for a greater period of time.

Wave energy consists of equal amounts of kinetic and potential energy. The kinetic energy can be converted to stored potential energy by building fixed reservoirs at sea.

Waves force water through the one way openings in the sides of the reservoirs to raise the water level above sea level. The resulting head of water can then generate electricity.

The reservoirs store energy to help meet peaks in electricity demand. They block the forward motion of waves and so are effective breakwaters. They would be a cost effective solution to the problems of coastal erosion and flooding.

Wave Energy - Ocean Energy Council


Z.

Simon Barker:

The main problem that wave powered generators have is that it only takes one good storm, and you're left picking up lots of little bits of generator from the nearest beach.


The difference in energy density between a gentle swell and a full-on force 11 storm is massive.

Some shore based systems automatically raise their "floaters" in storm conditions to protect themselves.

Wave Power Could Be Energy's Next Big Leap - Bing video


Z.

Its the movements in the environment and the salt water itself , basically really good wave energy , really does punish the gen kit , with huge mechanical movements . Not really seen any that i like/cost effective except for last week , with a sort of harbour wall mounted device , still would get totally hammered in a bad storm

Yes, tidal energy is more realistic than wave but is extremely expensive to install and maintain.

The Severn estuary has seen several schemes but the cost is prohibitive unless we can use the dam wall as a motorway access to South Wales from Somerset.