Balancing power production and coastal protection: A bi-objective analysis of Wave Energy Converters

Wave Energy Converters (WECs) have the potential to serve dual purposes, generating power and protecting coastlines. Although traditionally the focus has been on maximizing power generation for cost-effectiveness, growing impacts of climate change have made coastal protection increasingly imperative. However, power production and coastal protection have been addressed separately, missing potential synergies. This paper addresses this gap by conducting a bi-objective analysis to investigate the interactions between power extraction and wave attenuation for a single Oscillating Surge Wave Converter (OSWC) and WEC farms of three and five units. A linear Power Take-Off (PTO) system, with passive and reactive control strategies, is examined. By varying the PTO parameters, we assess their influence on both power production and wave field attenuation. Results demonstrate a significant impact of the PTO choice on wave attenuation, with a similar trend observed for power production. This finding highlights the potential for a trade-off, where maximizing wave attenuation may come at the cost of moderate energy output. Furthermore, the interactions observed within the WEC farms enhance this trend. The study emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to WEC technology development, promoting sustainable and resilient harnessing of wave energy resources, considering both power generation and coastal protection.