Conclusion
After researching the tidal barrage, attenuator, and point absorber methods of converting wave energy, we found the point absorber to be the most promising method due to its low cost, minimal environmental impact, its ability to operate in varying wave conditions and water depths, and the ability to deploy multiple units relatively easily. On a cost per kW of generating capability, the point absorber cost was approximately 1/4 of the tidal barrage cost. Deploying a point absorber is a low-impact evolution from an ecological and environmental standpoint, while the tidal barrage has large impacts in these areas that can be difficult to predict in advance. The point absorber can be designed to operate in multiple environments, and is not impacted by waves coming from different directions. By comparison, tidal barrage must have a large tidal range, which limits where it can be deployed economically. Similarly, the attenuator is most efficient when encountering steep waves. Finally, its small footprint and low visibility makes gives it an advantage over the other conversion methods discussed.
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