Global wave and tidal stream energy production has risen tenfold over the last decade, according to a report by Ocean Energy Systems (OES).
The OES annual report found cumulative energy produced from wave and tidal stream sources rose to 45 gigawatt-hours in 2019 from less than 5GWh in 2009.
Numerous other wave and tidal stream devices have been deployed in open-sea waters for testing, while further ‘push and pull’ mechanisms are stimulating the ocean energy sector in various regions of the world, it added.
OES is a 25-member intergovernmental collaboration between countries operating under a framework established by the International Energy Agency.
OES chairman Henry Jeffrey (pictured) said: “Our latest report underlines the considerable international support for the marine renewable sector as leading global powers attempt to rebalance energy usage and limit global warming.
“Decarbonisation has been appointed as the main strategy to tackle this challenge and many countries around the world have revised or set ambitious targets for emission reductions while ramping up the electricity production from renewable resources.
“The start of this new decade carries considerable promise for ocean energy.
“Important projects and deployments are being planned for the coming years as the mission to decarbonise intensifies and governments across the globe show increased interest in ocean energy technologies.”
Each year OES presents an annual report including summaries of new, ongoing and recent projects, as well as updated member country reviews.
Its focus covers all forms of energy generation in which sea water forms the motive power through its physical and chemical properties, including wave, tidal range, tidal and ocean currents, ocean thermal energy conversion and salinity gradients.