Tidal Energy
Danny Hamilton & Katrina
Bridgett
How Does This Technology Work?
This energy works by forming of hydropower that converts energy of tides into electricity.
Hydropower is the use of water to activate electricity.
The tide is created by the gravitational effect of the sun and the moon on the Earth that
cause movement of the seas.
How Could This Energy Source be Used?
• Tidal Energy is produced though the use of tidal energy generators. These large
underwater turbines are placed in areas with high tidal movements, and are designed
to capture the kinetic motion.
There are currently three different ways to get tidal energy; tidal streams, barrages, and
tidal lagoons
• Tidal Streams: the use of wind power on streams to form energy.
• Barrages: the use of a large dam to make water spill over top and through turbines to
provide electricity.
• Lagoons: the use of a tidal lagoon that functions similarly to a barrage, but instead of a
dam - natural coastlines are used.
Environmental Impacts of Tidal Energy
• Tidal energy is a renewable source of electricity which does not result in
gases responsible for global warming.
• The use of Tidal Energy could also decrease the need of nuclear power
with its high radiation risks.
Are There Hidden
Environmental
Costs?
Tidal Energy is one of the most
expensive energy sources. To acquire
the most energy, there is a need for
dams and other barriers to maintain
tides. Therefore, the cost rises and
makes tidal energy more of an
expensive energy source.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Tidal Energy
Advantages
• Renewable
• Does not emit any gases such as
Co2.
• Predictable
• Effective at low Speeds
• Long Life Spans
Disadvantages
• Harmful effects of tidal energy
plants are unknown.
• Close to land
• Expensive
Is This Technology Widely Accepted Today?
• Tidal Energy, as a whole, has been given a variety of opinions. Many
believe it is a much more safer energy source that blends with nature,
whist others believe it is too expensive and don’t favor a turbine in their
local source of water. Whether this technology is widely accepted
generally depends on area and morals.
Does The Cost Of Technology Make It Prohibitive For
Common Use?
• Sadly, the cost of this energy source makes it uncommon for use. The cost
to build turbines and dams in specific locations make it expensive and
unable to use commonly.