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Niche Applications and Flexible Devices for Wave Energy Conversion: A Review

Author

Listed:
  • Emiliano Renzi

    (Department of Mathematical Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK)

  • Simone Michele

    (School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK)

  • Siming Zheng

    (School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK)

  • Siya Jin

    (School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK)

  • Deborah Greaves

    (School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK)

Abstract

We review wave energy conversion technologies for niche applications, i.e., kilowatt-scale systems that allow for more agile design, faster deployment and easier operation than utility scale systems. The wave energy converters for niche markets analysed in this paper are classified into breakwater-integrated, hybrid, devices for special applications. We show that niche markets are emerging as a very vibrant landscape, with several such technologies having now achieved operational stage, and others undergoing full-scale sea trials. This review also includes flexible devices, which started as niche applications in the 1980s and are now close to commercial maturity. We discuss the strong potential of flexible devices in reducing costs and improving survivability and reliability of wave energy systems. Finally, we show that the use of WECs in niche applications is supporting the development of utility-scale projects by accumulating field experience, demonstrating success stories of grid integration and building confidence for stakeholders.

Suggested Citation

  • Emiliano Renzi & Simone Michele & Siming Zheng & Siya Jin & Deborah Greaves, 2021. "Niche Applications and Flexible Devices for Wave Energy Conversion: A Review," Energies, MDPI, vol. 14(20), pages 1-25, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:14:y:2021:i:20:p:6537-:d:654126
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    8. Zheng, Siming & Phillips, John Wilfrid & Hann, Martyn & Greaves, Deborah, 2023. "Mathematical modelling of a floating Clam-type wave energy converter," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 210(C), pages 280-294.
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    11. González, Arnau & Arranz-Piera, Pol & Olives, Borja & Ivancic, Aleksandar & Pagà, Conrad & Cortina, Marc, 2023. "Thermal energy community-based multi-dimensional business model framework and critical success factors investigation in the mediterranean region of the EU," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 75(C).
    12. Zhao, Xuanlie & Zhou, Jiachun & Wang, Zhijie & Zou, Qingping & Renzi, Emiliano, 2024. "Hydrodynamic performance of multi-chamber oscillating water columns in a caisson array," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 305(C).
    13. Zhou, Binzhen & Wang, Yu & Zheng, Zhi & Jin, Peng & Ning, Dezhi, 2023. "Power generation and wave attenuation of a hybrid system involving a heaving cylindrical wave energy converter in front of a parabolic breakwater," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 282(C).
    14. Calheiros-Cabral, T. & Rosa-Santos, P. & Taveira-Pinto, F. & Lara, J. L., 2025. "Harnessing wave energy through breakwater integration: A review of technologies, deployment strategies and an open-access database," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 223(C).
    15. Chen, Xinhui & Wei, Jianfeng & Sheng, Songwei & Wang, Wensheng & Wang, Kunlin & Zhang, Yaqun & Wang, Zhenpeng, 2023. "Design and experimental study of a novel type water-filled submerged flexible bag wave energy converter," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 218(C).
    16. Zhou, Binzhen & Hu, Jianjian & Wang, Yu & Jin, Peng & Jing, Fengmei & Ning, Dezhi, 2023. "Coupled dynamic and power generation characteristics of a hybrid system consisting of a semi-submersible wind turbine and an array of heaving wave energy converters," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 214(C), pages 23-38.
    17. Wei, Yujia & Wang, Chao & Chen, Wenchuang & Huang, Luofeng, 2024. "Array analysis on a seawall type of deformable wave energy converters," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 225(C).

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