Yes, electromagnetic waves carry potential energy. Electromagnetic waves consist of oscillating electric and magnetic fields, and the energy associated with these fields can be both kinetic and potential.
The potential energy of electromagnetic waves is primarily stored in the electric field. The electric field carries energy when it interacts with charged particles or other electric fields. This potential energy can be converted into other forms, such as kinetic energy or thermal energy, when the electromagnetic wave interacts with matter.
For example, when light waves reach a solar panel, they can transfer their potential energy to the electrons in the panel's atoms, causing the electrons to move and create an electric current. In this process, the potential energy of the electromagnetic wave is converted into electrical energy.
Additionally, electromagnetic waves can have potential energy associated with their position or configuration. For instance, in the case of an electromagnetic wave trapped within a resonant cavity, the energy can be stored in the form of standing waves, which have nodes and antinodes that represent potential energy variations.
In summary, electromagnetic waves carry both kinetic energy associated with the motion of their electric and magnetic fields and potential energy stored in the electric field itself or due to their configuration.