Portugal explores wave energy as a solution for erosion and green power

Forward-looking: Portuguese scientists are exploring how the power of the ocean can be harnessed not only to generate clean electricity but also to protect vulnerable shorelines. Researchers from CIIMAR and FEUP have published a study in the journal Applied Energy, proposing a dual-purpose wave energy park near Esposende in northwest Portugal. Their vision goes beyond generating renewable energy – it integrates coastal protection directly into the design of the energy infrastructure. At the heart of the proposal is a 500-megawatt wave energy park composed of carefully arranged wave energy converters (WECs). The research team's analysis shows that, with the right configuration, such a park could generate over 340,000 megawatt-hours annually – enough to power more than 100,000 homes. But the benefits go far beyond electricity. By strategically spacing and orienting the WECs, the park could significantly reduce the force of incoming waves, lowering wave heights by more than 25 percent i ... Read full article.