Questions and Answers
What has hindered the widespread adoption of tidal and wave energy until recently?
Technology and cost limitations
Why is the United Kingdom considered a prime location for marine renewable energy?
Rugged coastlines
What makes tidal energy more predictable compared to solar and wind energy?
Gravitational forces of the moon and sun
What positive effects have marine ecosystems experienced due to tidal turbines, according to the text?
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Why do waves provide a consistent energy source for security?
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What is the main purpose of the FloWave tank at the University of Edinburgh?
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Which region is known for its massive tidal energy potential and powerful tidal currents?
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What is a key environmental concern associated with expanding tidal energy generation?
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Why are tidal and wave energy technologies still in early stages despite their long-term benefits?
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What is a significant focus of Nova Scotia's efforts in tidal energy generation?
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Study Notes
- The Water Brothers, Tyler and Alex, explore the potential of harnessing ocean energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote renewable energy sources.
- Tidal and wave energy have attracted scientists and engineers for years, but technology and cost limitations hindered their widespread adoption until recently.
- The United Kingdom, with its rugged coastlines, is seen as a prime location for marine renewable energy generation, leading the way in the industry.
- SeaGen, a tidal turbine in Northern Ireland, has been operational since 2008, producing 1.2 megawatts of electricity, enough for over 1,000 homes.
- Tidal energy is predictable due to the gravitational forces of the moon and sun, unlike solar and wind energy, making it a reliable renewable energy source.
- Concerns about marine life impacts from tidal turbines have led to wildlife monitoring programs and surprisingly positive effects on marine ecosystems.
- Orkney Islands in Scotland host the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC), where companies test prototypes for harnessing marine renewable energy, including wave energy devices like Pelamis.- The Pelamis wave energy device can power up to 500 homes and is being tested in Orkney to maximize efficiency.
- Wave energy is reliable as waves occur independently of wind, providing a consistent energy source for security.
- Wave energy technology faces economic challenges, but northern Scotland offers ideal conditions for development.
- The FloWave tank in the University of Edinburgh is a leading facility for testing marine energy devices at a large model scale.
- The FloWave tank can simulate stormy sea conditions with 168 wave-makers and circular shape, aiding in refining marine energy devices.
- Tidal and wave energy technologies are still in early stages, with high initial costs but long-term benefits in reducing air pollution.
- The Bay of Fundy in Canada has massive tidal energy potential, with tidal ranges capable of covering a five-storey building.
- The Bay of Fundy's unique shape and depth create powerful tidal currents, supporting a rich ecosystem.
- Nova Scotia's efforts in tidal energy generation include projects like the FORCE site, aiming for significant capacity by 2020.
- Fundy Tidal is working on smaller turbine projects for local communities, focusing on sustainable energy production.
- Environmental impacts on marine life are a concern in expanding tidal energy, requiring incremental deployment and monitoring.
- Marine renewable energy is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and diversifying energy resources to combat climate change.
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