Evaluation of wave energy potential in Ordu and Giresun provinces

As long as humans exist, the need for energy will continue to exist as well. Societies require energy to meet their basic needs such as lighting, heating, cooking, and more. The ever-increasing demand and costs for energy are directing producers and consumers towards renewable energy sources. Reducing countries' dependence on foreign energy and ensuring energy security is possible with domestic renewable energy. One of the high-potential renewable energy sources in our country, which is surrounded by seas on three sides and has a coastline of 8,210 km, is wave energy. The importance of wave energy stems from it being a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy source. This technology, which converts the kinetic energy of ocean waves into electrical energy, helps reduce carbon emissions caused by fossil fuels and plays a significant role in combating climate change. Additionally, wave energy is a continuous and predictable energy source, which enhances energy supply security. For countries with long coastlines and high wave potential, wave energy provides economic and strategic advantages by increasing energy diversity. In this thesis, systems used in wave energy production and the classification of conversion systems are discussed. The wave energy potential of Ordu, a city where the Central and Eastern Black Sea regions meet, is evaluated by examining the station data from 2021 provided by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, General Directorate of Meteorology.