An Overview of Wave Energy Technologies in the Mauritian Context

Abstract

Small Island developing states like Mauritius are very vulnerable to climate change as well as to fluctuating fossil fuels prices in the international market. Mauritius is targeting 35% mixed renewable energy generation by 2025. This work will focus on different types of wave energy converter (WEC) that can be used to supplement the existing local electrical energy grid. The key dimensions of a WEC are analyzed with respect to their ocean environment, namely, shore, nearshore and offshore and coupled to their working principles. Furthermore, the pros and cons of such devices are considered and much efforts have also been made to summarize the current status and future potentials of wave as an alternative renewable energy option for Mauritius.