Energy from the Tides
For many centuries we have known simple ways how to use the power generated by tides. An example of this is the water mills used for milling grain.
With so much attention turned towards alternative power sources in our times, there has been much more known and understood as to the most effective methods. Australian universities are encouraging serious research in this field.
The ideal method generates electricity with a two way system that utilizes both the rise and the fall of the tide.
The subject is an environmental issue as the best possible sites are those regions of the globe where one or more of the following conditions apply –
A naturally great tidal range of about 7 metres is required for gravitational power and this limits the numbers of areas where it could be suitably used.
The shoreline must be in location near to large consumers of electricity in order for the benefit to be experienced. Parts of Northern Canada, Britain, Southern Argentina, and the North West of Western Australia are included. The wonderful 10 metre tidal drop in the Kimberley region of Western Australia is considered the best situation in the world along with the Bay of Fundy in Canada.
The erection of sluice gates is essential at the site. Therefore the location must allow construction of barrages that will not inhibit activities of local sea craft.
It is a costly exercise shown by the billions of dollars estimated for the Severn Estuary barrage system in the UK.
The world’s first successful tidal powered electric plant, which spans the Rance River generates a peak 240 megawatts a day enough to power 16,000 homes in the United States.
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