Power Density. Water is 840 times more dense than air, which results in far higher energy density. While solar photovoltaics (PV) typically generate power on the order of a hundred watts per square meter and wind at one thousand watts per square meter of swept area, wave energy is typically in the range of several tens of thousands of watts per meter of wave front. This allows wave parks to produce power using smaller footprints than other renewable energy systems.

Predictability. The supply of electricity from wave energy can be accurately forecast several days in advance using satellite imagery. This allows utilities advance notice for sourcing plans to meet their short-term electricity scheduling needs.

Constant Source. Unlike, PV, which only produces when the sun is shining, ocean swells are available 24 hours a day. Unlike wind, which can change its velocity and associated power levels in minutes, waves provide a more consistent source of energy.

Proximity to Load Centers. Wave energy can be produced close to coastal populations and does not require significant additional build out of transmission (37% of the world’s population lives within 60 miles of a shoreline and 70% within 200 miles).

Demand Matching. In temperate zones, wave power potential is highest in the winter months, when electrical demand also is highest..

Other Attributes. Minimal “not in my backyard” (NIMBY) issues since generation stations are only partially above the water surface, and located miles offshore where they will not create view shed issues. These systems produce no hazardous emissions, do not produce greenhouse gasses or contribute to acid rain. Wave energy extraction is considered one of the most environmentally benign methods of power generation available.