Wave resources in Victoria

By capturing the energy of waves, it is possible to generate electricity. A wave's capacity to generate electricity is dependent on its height and speed. The higher and faster the wave, the more energy it contains. The wave's size and speed are influenced by wind speed and the presence of land nearby.

View an interactive map of wave resources in Victoria

Victoria has world-class wave resources, most noticeably West of Cape Otway. While wave technologies are still undergoing development, the Sustainable Energy Authority is working with technology providers to demonstrate the use of this resource in Victoria .

Wave energy is captured by turbines that are either fixed to the shore or floating on the water's surface. Ocean Power Technologies has installed a prototype wave energy generator off the coast of Portland . However, due to technical issues, this facility is currently not operating.

Key: Yearly average wave power potential (kW per meter)

The map indicates the potential wave power within Victoria. The resource assessment was developed in partnership with Water Technology.

Top | Last updated 11/03/2009