In the current environment, energy generation has become an imperative necessity due to the growing global demand. Fortunately, there are various sources of energy, many of which are renewable, meaning they do not deplete natural resources and offer a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels. Among them, the most notable is the use of renewable energy. dynamic tidal energy, a way of harnessing tidal movements to generate electricity.
This article explores in detail the characteristics, operation and relevance of this emerging technology that could change the way we produce energy. We will also assess its advantages and disadvantages, as well as its global viability.
Energy paradigm
Today oil It remains the world's main source of energy, used both to generate fuels and to produce derived products. However, its exploitation has a significant problem: oil is a non-renewable resource. This means that, once it is exhausted, it will not be possible to regenerate it for millions of years. In addition, its intensive use generates greenhouse gas emissions, responsible for climate change.
Therefore, the renewable energy are attracting the attention of scientists, companies and governments worldwide. These energies are obtained from sources that, unlike fossil fuels, are not depleted with their use. Among them, the Seawater energy, which takes advantage of tidal movements to generate electricity, thus providing a clean and sustainable source of energy.
How tidal energy works
The main attribute of the Seawater energy is its dependence on the movement of water. Unlike other energy sources such as solar or wind, tidal energy offers unique predictability: tidal cycles can be calculated with great precision. This means that over the long term, tidal energy can provide a stable and predictable flow of electricity.
There are two main forces that cause tides: the gravitational attraction of the SOL and Luna on Earth. In particular, the Moon plays a fundamental role, since its proximity to the Earth generates a greater force of attraction on the water in coastal regions. The variations in the intensity of this attraction cause high and low tides, moving large volumes of water that can be used to generate energy.
To take advantage of this movement, tidal energy installations are placed in deep rivers, estuaries or river mouths. In these places, the difference in water level during high and low tides can be used to generate electricity through hydraulic turbines.
Dynamic tidal energy
There are three main methods for harnessing tidal energy:
- Tidal current generator: This system uses the kinetic energy of moving water to turn turbines, very similar to how wind turbines work in wind power. This method is less invasive and cheaper than traditional dams.
- Tidal dam: Tidal barrages use the potential energy stored in the difference in height between high and low tides. This system, although effective, requires large infrastructures and has a high ecological impact.
- Tidal dynamics or dynamic tidal energy: This is more theoretical than practical technology, but it has great potential. It involves building huge dams, 30 to 50 kilometres long, from the coast towards the sea. These dams would generate differences in water level, causing currents that would be used to move turbines.
Advantages and disadvantages of dynamic tidal energy
Like any energy source, dynamic tidal energy has both advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages:
- It is a renewable energy source:The tides will never disappear, so this is an inexhaustible source of energy.
- Has a low environmental impact In terms of emissions: unlike nuclear or hydrocarbon energy, it does not produce toxic by-products or polluting gases.
- La electricity generated is predictable: Knowing the tidal cycles, it is possible to predict exactly when this energy will be available.
Disadvantages:
- Su efficiency is relatively low compared to other renewable energy sources such as solar or wind.
- The facilities have a high construction cost and maintenance, which limits its viability in many regions.
- You can have a significant impact on marine ecosystems, affecting the local fauna and flora.
Practical cases of tidal energy
There are already several projects around the world that harness tidal energy. While this technology is still in its infancy, it has proven to be a viable option in locations with favorable conditions. Some of the most notable projects include:
- La Rance power station (France): opened in 1966, it is one of the oldest and has the largest installed capacity in the world, generating 240 MW.
- Sihwa Lake Power Station (South Korea): The world's largest tidal power plant, with a capacity of 254 MW, was inaugurated in 2011.
- Swansea Tidal Lagoon Project (United Kingdom): It aims to generate more than 320 MW, but it is still in the planning phase.
The use of these plants in these locations has demonstrated that, with the right investment, tidal energy can be a reliable alternative to other forms of renewable energy.
With this information, it is clear that dynamic tidal energy, although still in the theoretical phase in many cases, has great potential to become a relevant energy source in the coming decades.