Great Lakes wave energy resource classification and Blue Economy opportunities

As interest in Great Lakes offshore wind energy grows, documenting marine energy resources following IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) standards is imperative. Other assessments largely overlook the Great Lakes, yet its marine resource presents opportunities for wave energy research and development. This study highlights the Great Lakes wave energy resource, analyzing 2006–2020 historical model data from the Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab's Donelan wave model. Though the model does not meet all IEC criteria, this relatively coarse and simplistic model corresponds closely to NDBC buoy observations. Results highlight common sea states having significant wave heights between 0.5 and 1.0 m and wave energy periods between 3 and 4s. Omnidirectional wave power density peaks in early winter, reaching a maximum monthly average between 4.7 and 6.9 kW m⁻¹ in December. The maximum monthly average wave power density dips in summer, ranging from 0.42 to 0.68 kW m⁻¹ in June. Fall and winter storms cause large wave power events, reaching 416 kW m⁻¹ in Lake Superior. Results are compared to previous localized Great Lakes marine energy studies and a coastal US wave power classification. Finally, a case study explores small-scale wave energy converter energy potential in Great Lakes' sea states, emphasizing the role the Great Lakes could play in developing marine energy solutions.