Wave energy resource and technology assessment for coastal North Carolina

A preliminary assessment is presented of ocean wave energy conversion as an energy source for North Carolina. It considers the state´s wave climate, the cost and performance of wave generating technologies now under development, and the potential impacts that these devices may have on the marine environment. It is the first evaluation that combines these three aspects for a specific coastal area of the United States. It is concluded that wave energy can supply significant amounts of electricity to North Carolina without disruption of natural environmental processes, other uses of coastal sea space, or the scenic beauty of the coastline