Optimization and Energy Maximizing Control Systems for Wave Energy Converters—3rd Edition

Dear Colleagues,

In recent years, the drive to industrialize wave energy conversion systems has intensified, particularly as global and regional policies, such as those in the European Union, emphasize the importance of renewable energy integration. Building on the progress of previous editions, this third-edition Special Issue continues to focus on maximizing the efficiency, durability, and economic viability of wave energy converters (WECs). This edition delves deeper into advanced control strategies that address both traditional and emerging challenges in WEC design and operation.

Key topics include the development of enhanced energy-maximizing control systems that consider multi-objective optimization problems, integrating both performance maximization and structural durability. With a particular focus on handling strong nonlinearities, nonidealities in power take-off, and extreme sea conditions, this Special Issue also explores the latest advancements in estimation, forecasting, and data-driven predictive control. The design of WEC arrays and coordinated control strategies are discussed as critical to scaling wave energy solutions to commercial viability. Novel solutions and concepts for energy harvesting are also welcome, both on the mechanical energy collector and power take-off systems, with the objective to provide higher control flexibility and conversion bandwidth. Finally, hybrid offshore systems are within the scope, if the integration aims at providing more flexibility and controllability for the WEC system.

We invite papers on novel optimization algorithms, experimental validation of control architectures, and innovative solutions to WEC challenges. This Special Issue aims to push forward the state of the art in wave energy research and contribute to its future as a viable component of the global renewable energy mix.

Dr. Giuseppe Giorgi
Dr. Mauro Bonfanti
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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