Wave energy represents another important resource for renewable maritime energy.  Wave energy, unlike wind and solar energy, is available almost around the clock. So far, there is no single solution for the best method of harvesting wave energy, and research in this region is still at an early stage.

Due to the large fluctuations in available wave power, which can vary by a factor of 100, a wave energy converter (WEC) must both operate efficiently at a low wave energy level and withstand extreme wave conditions. This is a significant challenge in terms of optimising the hydrodynamic behaviour of the structure and the dynamic properties of the current collection systems.

Current research focuses on the performance of the overall system. Advanced control approaches for efficient energy generation and concepts for minimising energy losses are being developed.