http://feeds.treehugger.com/~r/treehuggersite/~3/109498577/wave_energy_gets_smarter.php

From the article:

"...Computer scientists at the University of Edinburgh are using clever software to improve the efficiency of a wave-powered generator. The machine consists of four tubes connected by hydraulic rams, which generate up to 750 kilowatts when extended and compressed by the movement of the water. When the speed and frequency of the waves changes, the machine doesn't adapt particularly well, and this is what the researchers are focusing on. By using genetic algorithms which model evolution and natural selection..."

I've done some reading about GA but have trouble thinking of problems to apply the science to, no doubt due to my incredibly shallow understanding of GA.  This is for sure an area of future research.