ABSTRACT
A reliable source of wave information to determine extreme wave events is crucial for engineering design. Hence, an assessment of wave climate conditions for a specific site or region will provide a better understanding of wave characteristics for that site, specifically on extreme wave events occurrence and influence. In general, waves are generated by the wind blowing over a large stretch of water surface, while extreme waves are defined as large wave events driven by strong winds (Holthuijsen, 2009). The geography and climatology of Ireland contributes to formation of extreme wave events within Irish waters particularly on the West coast of Ireland (O’Brien, 2013). The long fetch of Atlantic Ocean and the influence of air masses from different sources and paths generate high energy waves that are beneficial for wave energy harvesting, as well as extreme wave events that may be detrimental to wave energy convertors. Figure 1-1 shows annual means of significant wave height (Hs) worldwide, which is based on statistical analysis of the 10-year WorldWaves time series for the period 1997 to 2006 (Fugro, 2014). Mean Hs in the Atlantic Ocean is up to 4 m, while off the West coast of Ireland the corresponding values vary from 2.5 m up to 3.5 m. Based on these data, it is evident that Ireland, and particularly the West coast of Ireland is situated at active extreme wave zones.
