Benefits and Challenges of the installation, maintenance and economic viability of wave machines

Pros:

Wave systems are generally inconspicuous and would have no impact environmentally and socially when placed on offshore sites (such as the one in Portugal), and depending on the durability of the machine itself, maintenance should be inexpensive.

Cons:

Some scientists have predicted that installing wave systems could alter the displacement of sediments, which could have possible long-term negative impact on the environment.

Finding a proper site where waves are constant could be difficult in certain areas. Furthermore, if an extensive amount of cables are required, implementing a viable wave power system could be overly expensive.

The machines would need to be very durable, and would need to be able to resist extreme conditions.

OWCs inhibit fishing and also present marine navigational problem.

Well's Turbines are only 40% efficient. (Evans 109)


"File:Pelamis bursts out of a wave.JPG". Wikipedia. 18/04/10http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Pelamis_bursts_out_of_a_wave.JPG.