Hydrokinetics: Making Waves in Energy Savings

By: David Smith

Hydrokinetics turns the constant motion of ocean waves into useful power. Window film does something similar for buildings—it manages a constant force already around us: sunlight and heat. By reducing solar heat gain through glass, quality films help lower cooling loads and increase comfort without major renovations. That matters because heat gain and heat loss through windows account for 25%–30% of home heating and cooling energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Finding renewable and everlasting energy has been a trial and error concept for quite some time. However, we have made breakthroughs with concepts such as wind and solar power. Now, through hydrokinetics or wave energy, we are harnessing energy from the ocean, is the idea of using power from the force of waves. Essentially, the stronger the waves, the more power harnessed. It's an innovative concept that can do a lot for our environment by conserving energy.    

It's (Obviously) Not Harmful for the Environment

 Creating power from waves doesn't use harmful resources like gas, fossil fuels, or waste. As a natural product of the earth, the ocean's waves are safe to use no matter which way you look at it. The waves are taken directly into electricity-producing machinery and used to power nearby generators and power plants.    

Multiple Ways to Capture the Energy

 From anchoring devices on the ocean floor to turbines on the coast, scientists are testing multiple ways to gather the power from the ocean's current. While this experimenting can be costly, the long-term benefits seem to be more "valuable than putting money into carbon-base fuels or nuclear," according to Takepart.com.    

Less Dependency on Foreign Oils or Gas

 This would be a breakthrough for many countries, especially those in coastal areas. Transferring oil actually causes a massive amount of air pollution and it can also be quite costly. If we can start harnessing wave energy regularly and in a large abundance, we can do a lot for our environment. Plus, the wave energy industry could mean millions of green jobs for people all over the world.    

Consistency of Power

 Regardless of weather conditions or wind speed, there is always a current. This means that there is a constant harnessing of energy, without man-made efforts. Of course, on windier days, the swell is larger, creating more energy and power. However, even on days that are lower in wind speed, there is still a swell. Being able to capture energy 24/7 naturally is a huge triumph in creating power.