Abstract
With the renewable targets of 2020 reaching ever closer, Europe is continuing its ambitious plans for 2030 of developing innovative projects that assist tackling climate change and increase renewable energy integration. The Netherlands are trying to develop their renewable energy portfolio, to create a viable long-term decarbonized sustainable society. So far majority of development has been focused on wind and solar, with offshore wind gaining significant traction over the past years. However, for the renewable energy transition to be fully realised, all indigenous resources must be evaluated and utilized.
The Netherlands have a long history of dealing with water, and have an extensive industrial base in ocean engineering and water infrastructure. However, when it comes to the development of wave energy the sector is lacking significantly compared to other offshore renewables. This study discusses the past, present and future status of wave energy in the Netherlands. We discuss the various schemes and propose a hybrid support scheme for the development of wave energy. Furthermore, we also consider the unique spatial characteristics of the coastlines and suggest a multizonal scheme, that can act beneficially and support development of different wave converter concepts.
Finally, based on the spatial and a techno-economic, we propose that by 2030 the policy focus should be to install up to 24 MW and by 2040 to 44 MW, with initial estimations on reductions per Unit Cost also discussed. With wave technologies in early stages of development in terms of technology and regional applications, there are numerous opportunities that can assist in “unlocking” the wave energy industry in the Netherlands.