Wave energy conversion systems and methods

A method for producing an output from wave energy for use on an offshore, nearshore or onshore facility, the method comprising the steps of:

• a) incorporating a structural support having a columnar volume into said offshore, nearshore or onshore facility, wherein the structural support comprises a movable piston plate therein, wherein the structural support is surrounded by buoyant system that oscillates, wherein the piston plate is coupled to the buoyant system with a linkage system, wherein the buoyant system, linkage system, and piston plate move in response to wave energy, and wherein air enters a first opening and leaves from a second opening formed in a structural support of the facility in response to movement of the piston plate;
• and
• b) incorporating a variable tuning orifice within the columnar volume of the support structure to finely regulate oscillation of the system.