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Energy and the Environment

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  1. Introduction
  2. Transport Fuels
    5 Topics
  3. Energy Sources: Fossil Fuels
    8 Topics
  4. Energy Sources: Renewables
    10 Topics
  5. Electricity
    10 Topics
  6. Energy Sources: Nuclear
    6 Topics
  7. Demand Response
    6 Topics
  8. Energy/Emissions Policy
    15 Topics
  9. Energy Economics
    2 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
Lesson 4, Topic 5
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Tidal Energy

Abdulaziz July 15, 2020
Lesson Progress
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  • Underwater turbines spin with tide movements
  • Turbines connected to a generator

Tidal power

Student Energy Courtesy

Indonesia will be home to the largest tidal power plant in the world

Novrida Masli

Pros

  • Consistent Power – Tides move constantly day & night (consistent generation capacity)
  • Pollution-Free no greenhouse gas emissions or water pollutants
  • Low Operating Costs – few ongoing operating / labour costs
  • Renewable – No material resources used or changed
  • Minimal Visual Impact – fully or nearly completely submerged in water well offshore
  • Efficient – ~80% of kinetic energy → electricity
  • Locations – numerous locations coast of British Columbia, Canada has 89 alone

cons

  • Device Breakdown – ocean storms, corrosion. ▲ cost of construction to ▲ durability
  • Shifting Tides – Changes in tidal movement could reduce efficiency
  • Marine Life Affected Sea – life harm by blades, floor mounting could disrupt habitats
  • High Initial Costs – lengthens the payback period, could be cost prohibitive
  • Few Implemented – few commercial installations compared to such as wind & solar
  • Reduced Sea Usage – footprint reduce shipping and recreation areas