Nature has ever been part of man's survival here on earth. Mother nature has provided man with everything to harness, produce or utilize. Like ocean waves, one good aspect is that you could make something good out of these waves though rarely become a disaster when there is a tsunami.
Ocean wave power is classified as a renewable energy source. Tidal waves or ocean streams happen as a result of the attraction of sun or moon on earth's ocean surface and partly due to wind. The energy derived from ocean waves is also called tidal energy or tidal power. With the world facing shortage of fossil fuels and oil, the demand for various type of renewable energy is bound to increase and one of the promising source of energy is ocean waves. Here are ways in converting ocean wave power to electricity.
1) First, is based on the high tide and low tide phenomena. During high tide, the water level rises and falls down during low tide. Typically, there are two bodies of water required separated by manmade divider. These dividers have built-in water turbines that convert flowing water to electricity. Flowing water could occur on the opposing sides, as determined by the height of the water level. Water flows from high level to low level. The difference in water level on both sides may not be that big, so normally, more number of water turbines are placed in the divider. The water divider between two bodies of water maybe made of a fixed structure or non-permanent one.
2) Second, is through tidal waves and wave stream or current. Tidal wave power in this option is widely available and not that expensive to put-up a wave power facility. Water turbines are likely positioned in areas where tidal wave power are high as compared to other areas in the ocean. This option may require long power transmission lines. Water turbines in this case may employ different types of designs. These designs are continuously being developed and optimized today.
Selection of which option to take in ocean wave power conversion to electricity is dependent on the feasibility study conducted and the applicability of the design considering one with the highest rate of return as more attractive. Commercialization is another aspect where designs of ocean wave power conversion facilities are tailored based on the applicable designs for the customer that will yield the highest power output at a minimum cost.