**2. Criteria System**

The site selection of wave power plants for islands is influenced by plenty of factors. After studying much research on site selection decision making and consulting experts, exclusion and evaluation criteria for wave power plant site selection are confirmed as follows; detailed data sources are provided in Section 4.1.

#### *2.1. Exclusion Criteria*

To exclude islands unsuitable for wave energy development, exclusion criteria are established based on the existing literature, the actual situation of the islands, and expert opinions. These criteria take technical, economic, social, and environmental factors into consideration.

#### 2.1.1. Marine Ecological Red Line

To maintain marine ecological health and security, China has designated important marine ecological function areas as key control areas; these are called "marine ecological red line" (MERL). All development activities that might affect ecosystems are prohibited or restricted in MERL areas [48]. Considering these restrictions and environmental factors, areas covered by MERL are excluded for wave energy development.
