Stephure, Timothy A.2019-01-252008Stephure, T. A. (2008). Feasibility Study For Using Wave Energy To Promote Sustainability In Developing Island Communities (Unpublished report). University of Calgary, Calgary, AB.http://hdl.handle.net/1880/109553This paper aims to identify the technical, social, environmental, and economic issues would need to be addressed in the implementation of a wave energy conversion facility along the Ilha Grande, Brazil coastline. Currently, the island uses primarily small-scale diesel generators to produce electricity for approximately 7000 inhabitants and up to 20,000 tourists that come year round to enjoy the pristine beaches and the Atlantic rainforest. Diesel power generation is associated with a host of transportation and environmental problems and its widespread use on Ilha Grande is contrary to the island’s green image and status as a federal ecological reserve. Though in its commercial infancy, wave energy conversion (WEC) already can boast less visual impacts than wind power, and greater predictability and power density than both wind and solar power. The latest designs require minimal maintenance and can resist hurricane force winds and wave conditions. However, the costs for WEC facilities are currently higher than competing technologies and the legal framework for issuing permits or concessions is not developed in Latin America. It is essential for the Brazilian government to produce a wave energy conversion development framework to mitigate financial and environmental risk while providing Ilha Grande with reliable, clean, and sustainable energy.engUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.report10.11575/PRISM/35812