Maximizing Wave Energy Harvesting Efficiency using NAHRIM 3D Wave Basin of Hybrid Floating and Breakwater Oscillating Water Columns Academic Article uri icon

abstract

  • Offshore wave energy is a promising renewable energy source, but its development is hampered by high costs and technical challenges in the harsh marine environment. This study investigates an innovative hybrid system that combines Floating Oscillating Water Columns (FOWCs) with Breakwater Oscillating Water Columns (BOWCs) to enhance the efficiency of wave energy harvesting. The research focuses on the hydrodynamic interactions between the two systems and aims to optimize their placement for maximum performance. Using a controlled wave basin at NAHRIM, scalable OWC models were tested under various wave conditions, measuring pressure, airflow rate, and primary conversion efficiency at different distances. By systematically adjusting the distance between the FOWC and the BOWC, the study reveals that the highest efficiency is achieved when the two devices are placed close to each other, and the wavelength-to-device-length ratio is between 10 and 30. This hybrid approach is demonstrably superior to the individual systems, with the BOWC consistently amplifying wave pressure. Despite these promising results, challenges remain in refining the system design and understanding wave resonance effects. The findings underscore the potential of hybrid wave energy systems to revolutionize offshore power generation, paving the way for more efficient and cost-effective renewable energy solutions. This study addresses critical knowledge gaps and lays the foundation for future innovations in wave energy technology.

authors

  • Omar, Mohamad Alif
  • Nasir, Khairol Nizam
  • Mohd Azhar, Nurul Afiqah
  • Samion, Mohd Kamarul Huda
  • Mukhtar, Azfarizal
  • Yusoff, Mohd Zamri
  • Saad, Mohd Rashdan
  • Imai, Yasutaka

publication date

  • 2025

number of pages

  • 17

start page

  • 115

end page

  • 132

volume

  • 129

issue

  • 2