As the quest for clean renewable energy intensifies extracting energy from ocean waves is increasingly attractive. The wave energy resource contains the highest energy density among renewables and it\\\'s virtually inexhaustible. Moreover in comparison to wind and solar the wave climate is more predictable and is generally less intermittent. To address this opportunity researchers at UC Berkeley have developed the \\\"Berkeley Wedge\\\"" -- a highly efficient wave-energy extraction device that also serves as a protecting breakwater nearshore or as a wave shield for offshore construction activities. The Wedge\\\'s power-take-off system is above water so it is simple to set-up and maintain. Moreover the device is passive -- requiring no active control or energy input. Aquatic species can swim freely under the Berkeley Wedge -- making it an energy-capture and wave shield device that is environmentally friendly. The theoretical efficiency of this novel floater is 96.34% and its wave-transmission coefficient is only 12.5% (1.56% energy transmission). Prototype testing was consistent with the theoretical predictions and thereby confirmed the favorable features of the Berkeley Wedge."
1) High energy conversion efficiency; 2) Easy to install and maintain; 3) Has a dual use as a breakwater nearshore or a wave shield offshore; 4) Environmentally friendly to aquatic species;