Study of wave energy potential in Tonekabon (N Iran)

Wave energy is produced when electricity generators are placed on the surface of the ocean. The energy provided is most often used in desalination plants, power plants and water pumps. Energy output is determined by wave height, wave speed, wavelength, and water density. In many areas of the world, the wind blows with enough consistency and force to provide continuous waves. There is tremendous energy in the ocean waves. Wave power devices extract energy directly from the surface motion of ocean waves or from pressure fluctuations below the surface. Tonekabon on the north of Iran is subjected to a very wave climate; in this work its potential for energy production is assessed based on data from covering the period 2000-2007. The transformation of the offshore wave field as it propagates into this area is computed by means of a near shore wave model in order to select the optimum locations for a wave farm. Zones emerge as those with the highest potential for wave energy exploitation. Wave power, along with renewable energy-generating sources like tides and streams, is underestimated considering its advantageous physical properties and predictability. This paper examines possible examples of wave power installations in the Tonekabon. The mean power within 50 km of the shore is determined to be (~3 kW/m), whereas higher power (~9 kW/m) is available further offshore.