Understanding Tidal Energy Sources

Study Notes

Tidal energy harnesses the power of the ocean's tides, caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun, to produce electricity.

Tidal energy can be produced through three methods:
- Tidal turbines: underwater windmills that convert tidal energy into electricity
- Tidal barrages: turbines placed inside a dam-like structure that closes and opens with the tide to generate energy
- Tidal lagoons: enclosed ocean water bodies that generate continuous power

Tidal energy is a renewable source due to its dependence on the moon's gravitational pull

Inexhaustible energy: tidal energy is boundless due to the moon's gravitational pull
Predictable energy: tidal energy is predictable due to the moon's relationship with the tides
Clean and cheap energy: tidal energy is a green energy source with zero greenhouse gas emissions
High energy density: tides store a higher amount of energy than other energy sources, like wind energy

High upfront costs: construction of turbines and barrages is expensive
Lack of suitable locations: tidal energy generators require a coastline with a significant difference between high and low tides
Detriments to marine life: tidal energy generators can disrupt marine life and cause harm to fish and other species
Intermittent nature: tidal energy can only be produced during the rise and fall of tides, requiring a reliable energy storage system
Difficult to transport: tidal energy plants are often located far from the areas that utilize the energy
Vulnerability to severe weather: tidal energy generators are susceptible to damage from hurricanes and typhoons