What are the limitations of extracting energy from- (a) the wind? (b) waves? (c) tides?

Wind energy offers a clean and renewable option for power generation. However, there are several limitations:
Wind energy depends heavily on wind speeds, which can vary greatly by location and season. Areas without consistent wind are less suitable for wind turbine installations.
The operation of wind turbines can generate noise, which may be disturbing to humans and wildlife. Noise pollution is a significant concern, especially near residential areas.
Wind turbines can have adverse effects on local wildlife. Birds and bats are particularly at risk of colliding with turbine blades.
Additionally, the aesthetic impact of wind farms can be controversial. Some people believe that they spoil natural landscapes.
Wind energy is a great addition to the renewable energy mix but isn't perfect and comes with its own set of challenges.

Wave energy is generated by capturing the energy from ocean surface waves, but it also has its limitations:
The availability of wave energy is highly dependent on geographical and weather conditions. Not all coastal areas consistently have strong waves.
The equipment used to capture wave energy can endure significant wear and tear due to the harsh marine environment. This leads to higher maintenance costs and potential downtime.
Marine life and ecosystems can be disrupted by wave energy devices. The installation and operation can affect local species and their habitats.
Additionally, because the ocean can be unpredictable, the energy output from wave energy systems can be less reliable compared to other renewable energy sources.
While wave energy holds promise, these limitations mean it is best used in combination with other renewable energy sources.

Tidal energy harnesses the power of the ocean's tides, but it comes with specific limitations:
Significant tidal ranges are essential for efficient tidal energy generation, limiting its use to specific geographical locations.
Building and maintaining tidal energy infrastructure can be expensive. The initial construction costs are high, and ongoing maintenance can also be costly.
Tidal energy projects can impact marine habitats and navigation routes. The structures can alter water flow and sediment transport, which can affect local ecosystems.
The presence of tidal energy systems can also interfere with local fisheries and recreational activities, leading to potential conflicts with communities that rely on these areas.
Despite these limitations, tidal energy can be a valuable part of a diversified renewable energy strategy, especially in regions with significant tidal movements.