It is common practice by wave energy conversion technologists to estimate long-term wave energy potentials at both offshore and coastal sites by using established wind-wave spectral formulas. It is shown that the use of these formulas can lead to both incorrect wave energy resource estimates and improperly designed conversion systems. The formulas are shown to poorly predict modal and peak spectral periods for long-term seas.

Issue Section:
Technical Brief
Topics:
Wave energy, Wind waves, Ocean engineering, Seas, Shorelines
1.
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