Tidal energy is a form of renewable energy that harnesses the power of ocean tides to generate electricity. It is considered a reliable and predictable source of energy as the tides follow a regular pattern that can be predicted with a high degree of accuracy. Tidal energy has several advantages over other forms of renewable energy. In this article, we will discuss the various advantages of tidal energy and why it is a good resource.
Advantages of Tidal Energy
There are several advantages to tidal energy as a source of renewable energy:
1. Reliability
Tidal energy is a predictable and reliable source of energy. Tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun and their patterns can be accurately predicted many years in advance. This makes tidal energy more predictable than many other renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power.
2. Renewable
Tidal energy is a clean and renewable source of energy. It does not produce greenhouse gases or other harmful emissions making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to fossil fuels.
3. High energy generation
Tidal energy has the potential to generate a significant amount of electricity. In areas with strong tidal currents such as the Bay of Fundy in Canada and the coast of France tidal energy projects have the potential to generate hundreds of megawatts of electricity.
4. Environmental friendliness
Tidal energy can help to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. By using tidal energy, we can reduce our reliance on non-renewable energy sources such as coal and oil which are harmful to the environment and contribute to climate change.
Tidal energy projects have a relatively low impact on the environment compared to other types of energy infrastructure such as hydroelectric dams. Tidal energy projects do not involve the construction of large dams or reservoirs and they have minimal impact on water quality and wildlife habitat.
5. Positive economic impact
Tidal energy projects can have a positive economic impact on local communities. Tidal energy projects can create jobs in the construction and operation of the projects and can also generate revenue for the local community through the sale of electricity.
6. Integration with other renewables
Tidal energy projects can be integrated with other types of renewable energy infrastructure. For example, tidal energy projects can be combined with wind or solar energy projects to create a more diverse and reliable energy mix.
7. Steadiness
Tidal energy can be used to complement other forms of energy generation. For example, tidal energy can be used to provide a steady base load of electricity while other forms of renewable energy such as wind and solar power can be used to meet peak demand.
8. Growth potential
Tidal energy has the potential to make a significant contribution to the global energy mix. While it is still a relatively small source of energy compared to other sources, tidal energy has the potential to grow and become a significant contributor to global electricity generation.
9. Low maintenance
Tidal energy systems are also low maintenance meaning that they require less upkeep and repairs compared to traditional forms of energy. This is because the ocean’s tides are a constant and reliable source of energy meaning that there is less need for constant monitoring and maintenance of the systems.
10. Cost-effective
The cost of tidal energy has decreased significantly in recent years making it a cost-effective energy source. The cost of tidal energy is expected to continue to decrease as technology improves and more systems are built. This means that it could become a cost-competitive alternative to fossil fuels in the future.
11. Long lifetime and flexibility
Tidal barrage generators are easy to maintain. Existing units have lasted over 30 years. Besides, a tidal barrage can serve a dual purpose: as a power generator and as a roadway over an inlet.
In conclusion, tidal energy is a reliable and predictable form of renewable energy that has several advantages over other sources. It is a clean and renewable source of energy that does not produce harmful emissions, has the potential to generate a significant amount of electricity and can help to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Tidal energy projects also have a relatively low impact on the environment and can have a positive economic impact on local communities. With the potential for growth and a decrease in cost, tidal energy is a viable option for the future global energy mix.
