Tidal Power

Introduction
These days our very actions and consumer power is hurting our planet Earth. Pollution, smog, littering, and most notably of recent times to emerge is the threat of Global Warming. Remarkably society has shifted in attitude, with actions and research being conducted to clean the mess created. The frontrunner idea on how we can have a cleaner future is based on how we harvest our energy. Engineers are looking into Wind, Solar, Nuclear, and Hydro power. The technology around these is still developing and is unpredictable with some having hazardous effects. A smart choice may be Tidal Power.

Tidal Barrage
Is hydro type of energy, energy is harvested via rise and fall of sea level and/or tidal currents. Therefore they are systems that rely on Kinetic energy. There are systems that rely on potential energy like the barrage via difference in height. Historically in Europe they have been using this type of energy source with tide mills for grinding grains. A Tidal Barrage system is constructed across an estuary or bay that has the right set of conditions. The system’s aim is to let the water to pass through. As the water goes through the system the energy is converted into electricity by the turbines. The system can attract tourism and is a long project to construct with lots of site study.

Tidal Streams
Another far more superior system is Tidal Streams system which relies on tidal currents kinetic energy. Tidal Stream Power has two generations: the older normal system and the newer normal system with a shrouded turbine. They are placed in shallow sea areas where natural environmental seafloor design has made a point where currents have more pressure. Water is 800 times denser than air, therefore a great advantage over wind mills. It works with greater force. The turbines therefore naturally smaller, and some can rotate to always face up stream. Shrouded Systems produce 3-4 times the more energy, therefore ST has made it viable to put such generation in places not viable before. It is easy to connect to the power grid. ST is self sustaining; protected from ocean debris and marine growth. The development of this family is still relatively new with major works occurring 2000 beyond. ST can be combined with barrage systems to further increase efficiency.

Environmental Aspect
ST is environmentally friendly, and does not tarnish the beauty of the scenery with absolutely no environmental impact. Barrage Systems on the other hand are a very complicated case study. It is difficult to predict because each site is different and there are few projects to compare. What could be affected include: quality of water, sediment levels, and affects the turbidity of water; as a result this would flow onto affecting the fish and birds. Fish could be killed as they pass through the turbines. It could bring flora and fauna at that location where once not found. In the end, it is a complicated case study for each site.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Tidal energy has the potential to be a leading energy source with the right leadership. Comparing the two systems, Tidal Stream is more of a wise choice than Tidal Barrage. The new major projects to be built for the next 20 years around the world will be the key test.

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~ by juric on October 15, 2007.