Ocean wave power data generation for grid integration studies

Ocean wave power is a promising renewable energy source that offers several attractive qualities, including high power density, low variability, and excellent forecastability. Within the next few years, several utility-scale wave energy converters are planned for grid connection (e.g., Pelamis Power in Portugal and Ocean Power Technologies in Oregon, USA), with plans for more utility-scale development to follow soon after. Presently, there is little research on the impact of large wave parks on utility operation. This paper presents a methodology for generating large-scale wave park power time-series data that can be used for utility integration studies. In addition, this paper presents a broad, brief introduction to ocean wave energy fundamentals, history, and state of the art.