Generator Selection and Comparative Performance in Offshore Oscillating Water Column Ocean Wave Energy Converters

In the field of wind energy, electrical generator solutions have converged on a small number of technologies for specific technical and economic reasons. This paper investigates whether a similar rationale exists within the field of oscillating water column, wave energy converters. The suitability or otherwise of the various generator options in the offshore marine environment is examined in detail. Each generator configuration is then modeled and the annual energy output for a typical wave climate assessed with consideration being given to the impact of speed control on the energy output. Finally, some conclusions are drawn regarding the relative suitability of the different generator options.