A device for converting wave energy includes a surface float, a heave plate, at least one load carrying structure that is mechanically coupled to at least one component of at least one generator on the surface float and the heave plate. The heave plate has an asymmetric geometry to facilitate a first level of resistance to movement in an upward direction and a second level of resistance in a downward direction. The first level of resistance is higher than the second level of resistance. The at least one load carrying structure includes a flexible tether. The at least one component is configured to experience force changes caused by hydrodynamic forces acting on the surface float and heave plate.