Quantification of the Wave Energy Potential of the Gulf of Fonseca Coastline in Honduras (#1405)

Authors

Mejia Reyes, Diego Alejandro

Recarte Castellanos, Marlon Josue

Abstract

In accordance with quarterly data released by the National Electric Energy Company (ENEE), it can be discerned that the year-on-year growth in demand exhibits a linear pattern. When scrutinizing data pertaining to the maximum and total demands of a given year, it consistently manifests higher values during the months of that year compared to the corresponding months of the preceding year. This circumstance, coupled with the fact that slightly over 30% of Honduras' energy matrix is derived from firm energy sources, poses a critical challenge in meeting forthcoming energy demands during specific high-demand quarters in Honduras. This research seeks to contribute to the scientific knowledge of a relatively underexplored field, specifically the energy potential inherent in the waves lapping the country's coastlines. Consequently, this study is conceived as a modest segment of a plausible implementation of technology adept at harnessing this valuable resource. The research undertook an assessment of the ocean wave energy potential through the collection of physical parameters influenced directly by meteorological data in the region. Parameters such as wave height and intervals between waves, in conjunction with constants like seawater density and Earth's gravity, were considered to determine the theoretical potential value. These collated data, when applied in the wave power formula, ascertain the energy flux conveyed by waves in a given zone. Additionally, the study factored in the total and theoretically available length of the southern coasts of Honduras, considering the coastline lengths of the Valle and Choluteca departments, as well as the perimeter of Amapala Island, to establish the maximum theoretical power capacity.