Wave Power Could Lead to Green Energy and Positive Environmental Effects

New wave energy technology could offer the means to generate renewable energy as well as reduce coastal erosion.  It will be tested off the coast of Suffolk.
Trident Energy, based in Essex, is hoping for permission to place its prototype wave energy converter six miles off the coast at Southwold by the spring.  The project could spark a series of wave farms off the east coast and in other locations around Britain’s coastline.

The technology that is being tested uses generators which produce electricity via floats pushed along by waves.  Scientists are encouraged by the technology because it can operate with less powerful waves than found in the deep ocean, making it a good fit for the east coast.

One knock on effect that may be particularly beneficial for the east coast is the action of the technology in reducing some of the impact of waves on the coastline itself.
Hugh-Peter Kelly, Trident Energy’s managing director, commented wave farms would certainly reduce the impact of waves on the shoreline.”

Mr Kelly went on to say that there was enough energy in the sea around the UK to meet one fifth of the country’s electrical needs.

“If we take it forward in the future it has the potential to provide a very considerable number of jobs and employment potential,” he added.

www.tridentenergy.co.uk