Wave energy factors and development perspective analysis in Latvia

This article is about one of the forms of alternative energy sources — marine and ocean wave energy development possibilities in Latvia. Up until now, wave energy is one of the untapped energy sources in Latvia. This "green energy" potential in Latvia is estimated to be around 7.8TWh, and shows a promising possibility of producing 1.12TWh/year. For this purpose, effective hydroelectric power stations, which can convert wave energy into electricity, are necessary. This calls for the development of new technology to produce the necessary equipment — wave energy receivers and converters. The search for such technology, as well as the testing at various stages of development, is ongoing all over the world. The development of the previously mentioned equipment depends on the number of specialists involved, the professionalism, motivation, and constant budget size. The creation of such equipment in Latvia could become a critical argument for the establishment of such specific equipment factories. In this case, Latvia would take its place in the European renewable energy industry, whilst enjoying the growing industrial leverage and the improving import-export balance advantages. Marine spatial planning with the appropriate zoning of wave hydroelectric power stations is an important cornerstone for this development of this significant macroeconomic branch.