Tidal Power

[ChristWard]

Tidal energy is one of the most reliable and predictable source of renewable energy. There are two ways of creating tidal power: tidal dams and ocean currents. Dams are based on using a barrage at a bay or estuary with a large tidal range. Power is generated primarily at ebb tides as the barrage creates a significant head of water, much like a hydroelectric dam. Tidal turbines take advantage of fast-flowing ocean currents to create energy. The horizontal axis ocean turbines are the more common ones and are only half the size of the wind turbines, which are producing 1 MW of power.

The ocean’s energy is created when the sun’s heat warms up the ocean surface water. The Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) is a method that takes advantage of this temperature difference for generating electricity. There are three types of electricity conversion systems: closed-cycle, open-cycle, and hybrid. Closed-cycle systems use the ocean's warm surface water to vaporize a working fluid, which has a low-boiling point, such as ammonia. The vapor expands and turns a turbine. The turbine then activates a generator to produce electricity. Open-cycle systems actually boil the seawater by operating at low pressures. This produces steam that passes through a turbine. The hybrid combines both closed-cycle and open-cycle systems. OTEC is a successful system of power generation that has been in use since 1974. This system makes it wise thing to invest in tidal energy.

[BeWaterWise Rep]

Tidal power is a good source of alternate energy...It helps in generating electricity. It has its disadvantages too. It causes pollution of water bodies due to the release of toxic wastes and accidental spills. Hence awareness must be created on the proper installation of these machines. Water conservation techniques must be adopted to save our water bodies and help to create a safer planet. Water shortage is being experienced in many parts of the world, hence one must begin to save water at home.