Wave and tidal renewable energy harness the power of ocean water movements to generate electricity. Wave energy is generated by the surface movement of the sea, driven by wind forces, while tidal energy takes advantage of the rise and fall of sea levels due to gravitational forces exerted by the moon and sun. Both forms of energy are considered highly predictable and reliable, as ocean tides and waves follow regular patterns.

These technologies utilise various devices, such as tidal stream generators and oscillating water columns, to convert mechanical motion into electricity. As a renewable energy source, wave and tidal power have the potential to provide substantial, low-carbon energy, particularly for coastal regions. Unlike other forms of renewable energy, wave energy is predictable and it’s easy to estimate the amount of energy that will be produced. Instead of relying on varying factors, such as sun and wind, wave energy is much more consistent.

Solar energy is derived by capturing radiant energy from sunlight and converting it into heat, electricity, or hot water. Photovoltaic (PV) systems can convert direct sunlight into electricity through the use of solar cells. Floating solar renewable energy refers to the installation of solar panels on bodies of water such as lakes, reservoirs, and oceans. These floating solar systems are designed to harness solar power while utilising otherwise unused water surfaces, offering a unique advantage over traditional land-based solar farms.

The water helps to cool the solar panels, potentially improving their efficiency and extending their lifespan. Additionally, floating solar farms can help reduce water evaporation and prevent algae growth in reservoirs. 

Floating thermal renewable energy refers to the use of floating platforms to harness thermal energy from water bodies, typically oceans, seas, or large lakes. This technology capitalises on the temperature difference between warmer surface waters and cooler deeper waters, a process known as ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC). By using a heat engine, the system extracts heat from the warmer surface water and transfers it to a working fluid, which then drives turbines to generate electricity.

Floating platforms are an ideal solution for deploying OTEC systems as they can operate in deep waters, far from land, and are less disruptive to ecosystems compared to traditional installations. Floating thermal energy represents a promising and innovative method for tapping into renewable energy resources, particularly for coastal regions, and holds potential for long-term, sustainable power generation.