Harnessing wave energy to light up coastal communities

The video discusses the potential of wave energy, which could meet 15% of global demand. Oscilla Power, supported by the National Science Foundation, is developing the Triton wave energy harvester. The West Coast of the US is ideal for this technology due to high-energy waves and electricity demand. The Triton uses magnetostriction to generate electricity, with a design that withstands harsh sea conditions. The project faces technical challenges and cost considerations, aiming to reduce costs to $0.10-$0.15 per kilowatt-hour. Future tests will refine the technology, which could power over 650 homes per unit.

What percentage of global energy demand can potentially be met by wave energy?

• 20%

• 15%

• 10%

• 5%

Which organization is supporting Oscilla Power in developing the Triton?

• Environmental Protection Agency

• Department of Energy

• National Science Foundation

• NASA

What is one of the main technical challenges faced by the Triton system?

• Lack of funding

• Pounding surf and corrosive saltwater

• High maintenance costs

• Insufficient wave energy

What process does the Triton use to generate electricity?

• Photovoltaic effect

• Thermal conversion

• Magnetostriction

• Electromagnetic induction

How many homes can a full-scale Triton system power?

• 500

• 650

• 750

• 850