An Overview and Countermeasure of Global Wave Energy Classification

Abstract

Wave energy will be an important support to deal with the energy crisis of human society. A scientific energy classification scheme is a prerequisite support for the macro-scale optimized layout, micro-scale accurate site selection and a blueprinting of development routes for wave energy. Based on the indicator considered, this study first divides the global wave energy classification into three stages: preliminary exploration stage, mid-term development stage and relatively mature stage, and then sorts out the main strengths and weaknesses of each stage. It is found that the current classification scheme has six typical bottlenecks such as inconsistency with physical mechanisms, inability to meet the needs of diverse tasks, inapplicability in some seasons/months, etc. To effectively address them, a dynamic adaptive wave energy classification scheme is proposed, which can consider all elements, is suitable for diverse tasks, is available at all times and is applicable to all regions. Based on this, the concepts of absolute and relative classes, a dynamic mapping of wave energy classification, and a future energy classification are proposed, with the expectation of promoting the industrialization and scaling of wave energy.