What is wave energy?
Watch our video guide to learn all about waves, harnessing their energy, and the various types of wave energy converters. Also check out our Wave Technology section which details the funded programmes we have delivered.
Scotland has extraordinary potential in the wave energy sector and could become a world leader – if we make the right decisions now.
Wave energy in Scotland
Wave energy is unique in the benefits it can bring to Scotland and the wider UK. Fundamentally, Scotland’s marine geography offers a perfect environment for building a home-based industry sector.
The magnitude of the resource available around Scotland’s coastline, and internationally, is huge. The generation profile of wave energy enhances the electrical output from other sources, being highly predictable, delivering greater supply during winter months when more electricity is needed, and being available when other generation technologies are not. The increased utilisation of seabed space and the opportunity for infrastructure sharing with offshore wind cannot be matched by other renewable energy solutions.
Wave energy is another promising technology which could further diversify our energy mix. I’m delighted that Scotland is now one of the key locations for wave energy globally.Andrew Bowie MP, Former Minister for Nuclear and Renewable
Wave energy - the 2050 trajectory
By 2050, if Scotland is successful in achieving wave energy commercialisation at an array scale, the wave energy sector has the potential to provide a meaningful contribution to Net Zero, Just Transition, energy security and economic growth commitments and ambitions, both in Scotland, and the rest of the UK.
4.5
potential wave energy market in Scotland
4.2bn
in economic benefit to the Scottish economy
9,700
supported
30,000
associated with Scottish companies
Glasgow Science Centre - Curious About
Our Innovation Engineer Ieuan joined the Glasgow Science Centre on one of their 'Curious About' episodes. This session was broadcast live and delves into what a career in the renewable energy industry might look like. We explore Scotland’s role in generating wave energy, and leuan gives insights into his role as an Innovation Engineer with WES.
Transition Talks - Net Zero Technology Insights
EPISODES
Ep. 25: Examining the potential of wave energy
About the show
Transition Talks - Net Zero Technology Insights
A study by the University of Plymouth has revealed that wave energy has the potential to supply 15% of the UK’s annual electricity. Scotland, with its excellent wave resources, is a pioneer in the deployment of test and demonstration devices for wave and tidal technologies. However, there are factors hindering the industry from large-scale development.
In this episode Elva Bannon, Research and Engineering Manager at Wave Energy Scotland, discusses the potential of harnessing the power of waves to generate energy. Examining the current state of technology development, we explore the key challenges faced by the industry.
Listen nowNeed resources for your school?
We are committed to inspiring the next generation of engineers and innovators, so reach out if you would like to request a school STEM visit, want a copy of our educational explainer video, or have any other ideas on how we can support Scotland's education on wave energy.
