The Earth is filled with alternative energy resources, only if we seek out solutions to harness those natural energies and bring them forward for use. Because we are so hooked on to fossil fuel energy, we tend to neglect other alternative sources. One such natural energy example is tidal power or in simpler terms, the energy produced by sea waves. The Earth is one 1/3rd water, and still we have not yet brought this great tidal power to use. The theory behind is not even complicated, neither is it a hard target to achieve. Let’s take a look at both sides of tidal power and find out its pros and cons.
The Good Side of Tidal Energy
Tidal energy is one of the most important forms of renewable energy after solar and wind energy. Because of gravitational forces between the Moon, Sun and the Earth, tidal power will give us energy for billions of years to come.
Tidal energy is in itself a merger of wind and solar energy and to harness tidal waves, we just need to follow tidal cycles. Strong tidal waves are very much capable of generating a high amount of electricity with 80% more efficiency than coal or oil and 30% more than solar power. When we work on harnessing tidal waves, we may actually be able to curb down the level of storms and tsunamis. New dams and barrages needs to be built so that maximum benefit can be obtained from this vast source of renewable energy.
The Bad Side of Tidal Energy
The one thing that is holding back investors and dealers from moving towards tidal energy is the cost incurred to develop powerful plants and devices. People are looking at the short term cost, neglecting the long term low maintenance cost. Another main factor of this hesitation is the addiction; the habit of fossil fuel, as well as the profit amounted from it worldwide. Business tycoons of fossil fuel will make it an almost impossible task to bring forward renewable energy.
Another main concern is the availability of tidal energy for all. This means that only cities or countries surrounded by strong tidal waves would be able to receive its energy benefits. Places that do not have strong tidal waves or are far from tidal energy do not have the facilities to generate this power. The average amount of electricity generated would be 10 hours a day, that too when the tidal waves are strong and high.
The third main disadvantage is that of destroying the complicated ocean life. Turbine frames will disturb the movement of marine animals as well as reduce fish population. Not a movement that would be supported by environmentalists.
Conclusion
Tidal power is a great source of renewable energy, but if it is steered in the right direction, keeping all the cons in mind, it could play a vital role in giving healthy energy to all. Development, innovation and a desire to make a change is needed if tidal power or any other renewable power to be adopted.
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Good information on advantages and disadvantages
Thanks
smith
The generation of tidal wave energy is an entirely clean process. It does not involve the use of any greenhouse gases that lead to global warming. It can really be a potential source of greater amount of energy in the future
If these turbines were installed in rivers, then the power generation would be continuous.
Tidal power generation is equally important, but power generation in rivers has decided advantages.
Equipment and machinery installed in oceans is difficult to control, the water is corrosive, and unusual weather presents more severe obstacles than rivers. The mathematics involved in designing river power generation would not have to account for as wide an amount of safety factors. Also, power generation in rivers can be located far inland, or almost any location within an area provided there is sufficient river current.
Good luck.
Paul Tyler, 17 Wood Lane, Maynard, MA 01754
Tele: (978) 897-1901
i agree with paul if you put these in rivers instead of damming rivers it would be continuous generation and minimal impact on eco systems