Estimation of electrical-wave power in Merang shore, Terengganu, Malaysia

Abstract

Malaysian government introduced Small Renewable Energy Power (SREP) Program such as biomass, biogas, and municipal solid waste, solar photovoltaic and mini-hydroelectric facilities in 2001. In year 2010, the energy generated by biomass was achieved 18 MW and mini hydro also successes to generate around 23 MW. Green Technology and Water Malaysia are targeted by Ministry of Energy to achieve cumulative renewable energy capacity around 2080 MW at year 2020 and 21.4 GW at year 2050. This paper discusses the possibility to utilize ocean wave in Merang shore, Terengganu, Malaysia. The literature reviewed available technologies used to convert wave energy to electricity which are developing currently. The available technologies reviewed here are attenuator, overtopper, point absorbers, oscillating wave surge converter and oscillating water column. The work principle of the device was covered. Finally, the sea condition in Malaysia also studied to analyze the possibility to utilize the wave energy by using the available technologies. It is found that the mean wave height is 0.95 meter and the mean wave period is 3.5 second in the Merang shore, Terengganu, Malaysia. Attenuator type wave converter developed by Wave Star is considered as one of the possible devices to be installed at the location. From the calculation, it is obtained that the total rate electrical power possible to grid is 649 MWh a year if only one set of C5 Wave star device is installed on Merang shore, Terengganu.