Tidal energy is a form of renewable energy that is generated by harnessing the power of the tides. It is a clean, sustainable, and cost-effective source of energy that has been gaining popularity in recent years. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of tidal energy, including how it works, its benefits, and current trends in the industry.
The basic principle behind tidal energy is the conversion of the kinetic energy of moving water into electricity. This is typically done through the use of tidal turbines, which are similar to wind turbines but are placed underwater. Tidal turbines have blades that rotate when water flows past them, generating electricity as they spin. Tidal turbines can be grouped to form tidal farms, which can generate large amounts of electricity.
Tidal energy can be generated in two ways: tidal stream and tidal range. Tidal stream energy is generated by the movement of water in the ocean and is similar to wind energy. Tidal range energy, on the other hand, is generated by the rise and fall of water levels in the ocean and is similar to hydroelectric energy.
One of the biggest benefits of tidal energy is that it is a clean and renewable source of energy. Unlike fossil fuels, which produce harmful emissions and contribute to climate change, tidal energy does not produce any emissions or pollution. It also does not deplete natural resources, as the tides are a constant and abundant source of energy.
Another benefit of tidal energy is that it is predictable and consistent. The tides are driven by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun, and their patterns can be accurately predicted decades in advance. This predictability allows for the efficient planning and management of tidal energy projects.
The tidal energy industry has been growing rapidly in recent years. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, the global installed capacity of tidal energy reached over 12 GW in 2020 and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. Many governments around the world have set ambitious targets for the deployment of tidal energy and are providing incentives and subsidies to encourage the governments to invest in this great renewable energy source.