Abstract
The west coast of Canada has an abundance of potential wave energy. Currently there are many off-grid communities that do not take advantage of this renewable energy source and instead rely on diesel generators to fulfil their electricity needs. This study examines the viability of integration of wave energy converters into off-grid communities to lessen the reliance on fossil fuels for electricity. Implementation of a singular wave energy converter in the Tlatlasikwala community of Bull Harbour was estimated to yield 31.6 megawatt hours of electricity a year or around 13.3% of the yearly demand. Analysis of the economic viability through calculating payback periods using the average cost of wave energy converters and the fuel savings from renewable energy generation over a 20-year project life noted a requirement of funding by grants to recover costs. Included is a review of the current and proposed environmental concerns regarding wave energy converters.