A maximum power point tracking control for oscillating water column ocean wave energy converters

The oscillating water column (OWC) is a leading technology for harnessing ocean wave energy, offering significant potential for renewable energy generation. This study proposes a novel maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control strategy aimed at improving the energy conversion efficiency of OWC-based ocean wave energy converters (OWECs) operating in variable and unpredictable sea states. The control system dynamically adjusts key operational parameters, such as turbine rotational speed, in real-time using feedback from wave height sensors and turbine speed controllers. By continuously tracking and adapting to changing wave conditions, the MPPT algorithm ensures that the OWEC operates at its optimal energy extraction point. Extensive simulation results demonstrate that the proposed MPPT strategy achieves a 25% increase in power output on average compared to conventional fixed-parameter control methods. The findings also show a reduction in mechanical stress on system components, leading to enhanced operational reliability and longer system lifespan. Furthermore, the MPPT control system exhibits robust performance across a range of wave frequencies and amplitudes, maintaining efficiency even under low-energy and irregular wave conditions. The proposed control approach is compatible with existing OWC platforms and can be implemented with minimal structural modifications, making it a scalable and cost-effective solution for advancing the commercial viability of ocean wave energy systems. The results underscore the importance of adaptive control in optimizing renewable energy harvesting from marine environments.