Floating wave energy conversion platforms - Floating wave energy conversion platforms consist of buoyant structures that move with ocean waves to generate power. Their adaptability to deep-water environments and ability to be co-located with wind farms make them key to next-generation offshore renewable systems.

Floating wave energy conversion platforms represent a major segment of the WEC market, characterized by devices that are moored in deep water, where wave energy is often more powerful and consistent than near the shore.

These platforms are generally classified by how they interact with the waves: as point absorbers that capture energy from all directions through their heave (vertical movement), or as attenuators that are long, segmented structures positioned parallel to the wave direction, capturing energy through the relative motion of their joints. These floating systems require sophisticated mooring solutions and dynamic subsea cabling capable of withstanding significant movement in all three dimensions. 

The design challenge centers on tuning the platform's natural frequency of oscillation to match the frequency of the most energetic waves at the deployment site, thereby maximizing power capture. Their deployment potential is vast, as they are not restricted by specific seabed conditions or coastlines, offering access to high-resource ocean areas. However, the operational challenges of floating platforms—including high stresses on connections, complexity of at-sea maintenance, and the cost of deep-water moorings—remain key factors influencing their economic viability and path to commercialization.

FAQs on Floating wave energy conversion platforms

What are the two main ways that floating platforms are classified based on their interaction with the waves?

What is the primary design challenge related to the natural motion of the platform that engineers must optimize?

What unique operational and logistical challenges are associated with platforms deployed in deep, offshore waters?