TY - JOUR
TI - Current tidal power technologies and their suitability for applications in coastal and marine areas
AU - Roberts, A
AU - Thomas, B
AU - Sewell, P
AU - Khan, Z
AU - Balmain, S
AU - Gillman, J
T2 - Journal of Ocean Engineering and Marine Energy
AB - A considerable body of research is currently being performed to quantify available tidal energy resources and to develop efficient devices with which to harness them. This work is naturally focussed on maximising power generation from the most promising sites, and a review of the literature suggests that the potential for smaller scale, local tidal power generation from shallow near-shore sites has not yet been investigated. If such generation is feasible, it could have the potential to provide sustainable electricity for coastal homes and communities as part of a distributed generation strategy, and would benefit from easier installation and maintenance, lower cabling and infrastructure requirements and reduced capital costs when compared with larger scale projects. This article reviews tidal barrages and lagoons, tidal turbines, oscillating hydrofoils and tidal kites to assess their suitability for smaller scale electricity generation in the shallower waters of coastal areas at the design stage. This is achieved by discussing the power density, scalability, durability, maintainability, economic potential and environmental impacts of each concept. The discussion suggests that tidal kites and range devices are not well suited toward small-scale shallow water applications due to depth and size requirements, respectively. Cross-flow turbines appear to be the most suitable technology, as they have high power densities and a maximum size that is not constrained by water depth. Oscillating hydrofoils would also be appropriate, provided comparable levels of efficiency can be achieved.
DA - 2016/05//
PY - 2016
VL - 2
IS - 2
SP - 227
EP - 245
UR - https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40722-016-0044-8
DO - 10.1007/s40722-016-0044-8
LA - English
KW - Tidal
KW - Marine Energy
KW - Human Dimensions
KW - Ecosystem Processes
ER -