L2M – Advanced Power Electronics Converters for Maximizing Wave Energy Harvesting in Ocean Systems

With its vast untapped potential, wave energy could become the leading source of renewable energy from our oceans. These systems do not produce greenhouse gases, thereby contributing to a reduction in the carbon footprint of electricity generation. With a higher energy density compared to wind, wave energy has significant potential for power generation. However, commercial wave energy technology remains largely undeveloped, and large-scale wave farms are not yet supplying the grid. Like other renewable energy sources, the voltage amplitude and frequency generated from waves are unstable and may vary continuously. This instability poses difficulties for integrating wave energy into the grid, which requires a consistent and reliable power supply. To date, there has been very little research on the development of advanced wave energy converters with novel Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) techniques for efficiently harnessing wave energy. As a result, no definitive wave energy technology or widely available commercial wave farms exist. The global potential for wave energy is estimated to be approximately 29,500 terawatt-hours; however, its practical contribution to energy systems remains minimal. Developing advanced power converters with innovative MPPT algorithms could significantly enhance wave energy utilization by improving energy capture.

Faculty Supervisor:

Mohsin Jamil

Student:

Partner:

Springboard Atlantic Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Ocean Tech; Sustainability & the Environment; Technology

University:

Memorial University of Newfoundland

Program: