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Current tidal power technologies and their suitability for small-scale applications in shallow near-shore areas.

Roberts, A., Thomas, B., Sewell, P., Khan, Z. A., Balmain, S. and Gillman, J., 2016. Current tidal power technologies and their suitability for small-scale applications in shallow near-shore areas. Journal of Ocean Engineering and Marine Energy, 2 (2), 227-245.

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Official URL: http://link.springer.com/journal/40722

Abstract

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 nearby 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 small-scale electricity generation in shallow waters. This is achieved by discussing the power density, scalability, durability, maintainability, economic potential and environmental impacts of each concept. The performance of each technology in each criterion is scored against axial-flow turbines, allowing for them to be ranked according to their overall suitability. The review suggests that tidal kites and range devices are not suitable for 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.

Item Type:Article
ISSN:2198-6444
Uncontrolled Keywords:Tidal energy ; marine energy ; technology evaluation ; small-scale ; shallow water
Group:Faculty of Science & Technology
ID Code:23359
Deposited By: Symplectic RT2
Deposited On:31 Mar 2016 09:47
Last Modified:14 Mar 2022 13:55

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