The ocean is an inexhaustible source of energy with enormous potential for generating electricity from various renewable technologies. Among them, tidal and wave energy stand out as sustainable alternatives that can significantly contribute to the global energy transition. Thanks to the constant influence of tides and waves, these forms of generation offer a predictable and stable flow of energy.
Despite their appeal, these technologies face multiple challenges, from their high implementation costs to the need to minimize their impact on marine ecosystems. However, with advances in engineering and growing investment, more and more countries are investing in their development to turn ocean energy into a viable long-term solution.
What is tidal energy?
Tidal energy It is that which is obtained from the movement of water caused by the tides, which are generated by the gravitational interaction between the Earth, the Moon and the Sun. This energy has been harnessed for centuries using tidal mills, but has now been modernized with underwater turbines and generators.
There are several ways to harness tidal energy, mainly through:
- Tidal barrages: Dikes are built in estuaries to take advantage of the difference in height between high and low tide.
- Tidal current generators: They work similarly to wind turbines, but underwater, capturing the kinetic energy of ocean currents.
- Dynamic tidal energy: A technology still under development that attempts to harness the pressure differential generated by tidal movement.
Areas with the greatest potential for tidal energy
Tides do not have the same intensity everywhere in the world, so the viability of tidal energy depends on the location. In Spain, the points with the greatest potential are located in the Strait of Gibraltar and the Galician coast, where the currents reach optimal speeds.
At a global level, the following stand out:
- United Kingdom: MeyGen project in Scotland, with underwater turbines in the Pentland Strait. To learn more about these developments, you can read about the tidal power station in France.
- France: It houses Europe's largest tidal power station at La Rance.
- Glen: Projects in the Bay of Fundy, one of the highest tidal areas in the world.
What is wave energy?
Wave energyWave energy, also known as wave power, is obtained from the motion of waves. This constant ebb and flow of water contains a large amount of kinetic energy that can be transformed into electricity using various devices.
The main technologies used for its use are:
- Oscillating Water Columns (OWC): Closed chambers where the movement of the waves pushes the air, driving turbines.
- Absorption point systems: Floating buoys that capture energy in all directions.
- Surface wave converters: Floating structures that transform wave motion into mechanical energy.
- Differential pressure systems: Underwater chambers in which pressure variations drive turbines.
Featured wave energy projects
Spain is a pioneer in the application of this technology, with a clear example in the Mutriku wave power plant, in the Basque Country, which was the first commercial facility of its kind in Europe. Other initiatives include:
- Eco Wave Power (Mallorca): Under development, with a planned capacity of 2 MW.
- Projects in Galicia and the Canary Islands: Assessments are underway to determine the viability of wave harvesting. These efforts are part of the movement toward a global platform for renewable energy.
Advantages and disadvantages of marine energy
Advantages
- Inexhaustible source: The sea is a renewable resource that will never run out.
- Low emissions: It does not produce greenhouse gases.
- High predictability: Tides and waves follow constant patterns, facilitating energy planning.
- Compatibility with other renewable energies: It can be combined with solar or wind systems, which is evident in the expansion of offshore wind energy.
Disadvantages
- High costs: The construction and maintenance of infrastructure are expensive.
- Environmental impact: It can affect marine ecosystems.
- Geographic limitations: It is only viable in areas with suitable characteristics.
- Technological challenges: Many solutions are still in the development phase.
Ocean energy represents one of the most promising options within the renewable energy sector. Although it still faces obstacles, its potential to provide clean electricity y sustainable financing model It is undeniable. Spain, with its extensive coastline, has a unique opportunity to lead the marine energy revolution, promoting both tidal and wave energy in its process of development. energy transition.
