Wave Power

Wave power function by converting the energy of the oscillations of the waves into electricity.  Since the oscillations of waves are for the most part always happening, this method can produce power at almost all times.  There are a variety of different methods to do so however each of which function in unique ways.

The power available from waves is given by its power density which is the power per meter of wave crest can be found using a fairly simple formula.

$P=(\rho *g^2)/(4*\pi )*H_r$_ms²*T_e
(Taken from http://www.gov.scot/Publications/2006/04/24110728/10)

In this formula ρ is the density of the water, g is the gravitational constant, H_rms is the standard deviation of the water surface from its mean position, and T_e is the period of the waves.

Point Absorbers

Point absorbers are located on the surface of the water and held in place by cables.  They function by using the difference in height from wave oscillations to drive a hydraulic pump to create energy.

Surface Attenuators

Surface Attenuators work very much like point absorbers but are composed of a multitude of connected segments that are oriented perpendicular to the waves.  They generate power by the flexing of the device around the joints connected the segments in order to drive a hydraulic pump.