Abstract
As the global demand for renewable energy grows, wave energy has emerged as a promising solution due to its energy density and predictability. Norway, with its extensive coastline and strong expertise in offshore technology, possesses a notable potential for wave energy harvesting. Estimates suggest that wave energy could contribute substantially to the country’s renewable energy portfolio, complementing its existing hydro and wind resources. However, assessing the feasibility of wave energy extraction requires a detailed analysis of environmental conditions and available technologies. This study investigates the wave energy potential in Northern Norway using NORA3 oceanographic and meteorological Reanalysis data. Using the same data, the average wave energy power is estimated in Northern Norway across multiple locations, considering wave heights and periods. Potential deployment sites are selected based on water depths, ensuring compatibility with current Wave Energy Converter (WEC) technologies. The study then evaluates the average energy output for three different WEC designs. The results provide valuable insights into the viability of wave energy in Northern Norway in a conceptual phase, offering a foundation for further analysis and future WEC installation aimed at enhancing the regional sustainable energy production.