Recent advancements in wave energy converter technologies: A comprehensive review on design and performance optimization

The increasing global demand for renewable energy highlights the importance of ocean wave energy as a reliable and high-density resource. This review focuses on optimizing Wave Energy Converters (WECs), addressing key challenges such as energy inefficiency, high costs, and limited adaptability in harsh marine environments. The study employs a systematic review methodology to evaluate optimization techniques, including deterministic, probabilistic, and multi-objective approaches. These methods have demonstrated significant advancements in energy capture, stability, and cost-efficiency through strategies like geometric design enhancements, advanced control systems, and AI-driven algorithms. Key findings emphasize the role of geometric parameters, such as buoy dimensions, and Power Take-Off (PTO) systems in enhancing energy conversion. However, challenges persist in achieving scalability, reducing computational costs, and validating results through experimental testing. This review recommends hybrid WEC systems integrating multiple energy capture mechanisms and adaptive designs to address wave variability and improve performance. Additionally, incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and real-time adaptive control mechanisms could revolutionize WEC efficiency and reliability. By bridging these gaps, future research can significantly enhance the practicality and sustainability of wave energy as a renewable resource.