Green Technology : Wave and Tidal Energy

Wave and Tidal Energy

 > Wave and tidal energy are renewable energy sources receiving attention in research and development, they are energy source with the potential to revolutionie the global energy landscape

Historical Background

 > The history of wave and tidal energy dates back centuries, up to early civilizations recognising the power of the ocean. However, significant technological advancements were made in recent decades in harnessing this energy.

Key Concepts

 > Wave energy is a derivative of wind energy where the wind interaction with the water surface over large distances causes the propagation and growth of waves that transfer energy across the water surface
Tides are driven by the gravitational pull from the moon, sun, and other celestial bodies, resulting in the natural rise and fall of ocean tides, and currents that contain a natural form of kinetic energy


Main discussion points

The Potential of Wave Energy

Wave energy resources are abundant worldwide, making it a compelling renewable energy source

The Potential of Tidal Energy

Tidal energy offers predictability and reliability, making it an attractive option for renewable energy generation.

Environmental Impacts

Direct effects ;
1) Impacts on habitats and species, focusing on ecological changes
2) Direct impacts on reproduction and recruitment
3) Impacts on water column processes and hydrology.

Indirect effects ;

1) Noise emissions
2) Electromagnetic fields

Case Studies or Examples

Real-world examples of successful projects are

Pelamis Wave Energy Converter and the Wave Hub in Cornwall, UK

Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station in South Korea or the MeyGen tidal energy array in Scotland

Current Trends or Developments

The field of wave and tidal energy is constantly evolving, with new advancements and research findings emerging regularly.

The interest and investments in wave and tidal energy is increasing on a global scale.

Challenges or Controversies

Scaling up wave and tidal energy projects poses significant challenges that must be addressed ranging from technical and logistical constraints to regulatory hurdles.

Additionally, the controversies surrounding the environmental impacts and stakeholder concerns.

 

References :  
https://green.org/2024/01/30/what-is-wave-and-tidal-energy/
https://www.e-education.psu.edu/earth104/node/1068  
https://news.mongabay.com/2024/10/as-tidal-power-rides-a-wave-of-clean-energy-optimism-pitfalls-persist/
https://www.woodplc.com/solutions/key-markets/energy/wave-and-tidal
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S019592551100076X
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