Abstract
As the global demand for sustainable and low-carbon energy sources intensifies, the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) advocate for renewable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly energy sources. Ocean wave energy, a predictable and stable renewable resource, presents a significant opportunity to diversify the energy mix, enhance energy security, and mitigate climate change. Despite having a moderate energy flux compared to open oceans, the Mediterranean Sea offers a unique opportunity for harnessing wave energy. This is mainly attributed to the stable sea conditions, lower installation risks, and proximity to coastal populations. However, realizing this potential requires overcoming challenges related to technology durability, high capital costs, environmental impact, and fragmented regional policies. Through a qualitative synthesis of recent resource assessments, this paper provides an overview of the Mediterranean Sea’s wave energy capacity, highlighting the performance and deployment of wave energy converters (WECs) in various locations within the basin. This study also explores the role of WECs, their technological advancements, integration with hybrid renewable systems, and emerging pilot projects in Mediterranean countries. The study highlights the need for regional cooperation, innovation in wave-hybrid systems, and climate adaptation strategies to harness wave energy as a viable contributor to the Mediterranean’s sustainable energy transition.