Tidal Energy

Among all the renewable sources of energy, tidal energy is a substitute source of energy like solar energy, wind, geothermal heat since it is cleaner and renewable too. The natural sources of energy –directly or indirectly, conventional or unconventional, renewable or non-renewable originate from the sun. Tidal power draws energy primarily from orbital distinctiveness of the earth-moon system, though the sun impact minutely on the tide.

By the current of ocean waters during the rise and fall of tides, tidal energy is produced. A tidal power plant utilizes this energy for the benefit of mankind and converts it into electrical energy. Since tides are reliant on the gravitational pull of the moon, they are fairly more predictable than energies drawn from wind and solar panels which depend on the sun. This is why a tidal power plant can generate electricity incessantly and consistently as compared to other sources of renewable energy. Subsequently, tidal energy can be harnessed through tidal barrages or the modern-day dynamic tidal power plant.

Tidal stream generators function like wind turbines. The flowing water turns the blades of the turbines, converting tidal energy to rotary mechanical energy, which is in turn converted to electrical energy in the generator. The tidal stream generators are the familiar and versatile means of generating energy but they too have their own share of problems. It is a difficult job to identify the tidal stream and placing the turbines in the stream. As the turbines are huge in size and therefore disturb the flow of tides. Turbines which are placed in shallow water are more successful; the briskness of water is also an obstacle.

Dams or barrages are constructed since tidal barrages are the best known systems of generating electricity from the tides. Water splashes and spills over the barrage during high tides which is captured and stored in the dam. This stored water is released during low tides. Besides the walls of the barrage turbines are put which generate electricity when water flows in and out of the dam. The flow of water can be controlled in a manageable way so this is the appropriate method of producing electricity. It has some deep repercussions on the adjoining atmosphere; constructing it inflates the cost also; it alters the ecosystem at the bay; the salinity of water changes which in turn affects the habitat of local marine life.

The tidal power plant proven conceptually has not been practically tried out in the world. Theoretically it can be successful on places where the main tidal movement runs parallel to the shores. Using tidal energy to generate electricity is still in its formative years. Indiahas a noteworthy coastline and thus remarkable prospective for generation of electrical power from tidal energy but setting up a tidal power plant is luxurious as well as time consuming.

With development in technology and more research, tidal energy would be one of the most significant sources of energy in the future times. While exploring for other inexhaustible sources of energy, the tidal energy is surely one to be considered.