Wave & Tidal Energy
Both wave energy and tidal power involve harnessing the movement and energy contained in seas or oceans and converting it into electrical power.
Waves are created by the impact of wind on the surface of the water and the tide is controlled by the gravitational fields of the earth, moon and sun, which means both are renewable sources of energy (they won’t run out).
In fact, wave power is the most concentrated form of renewable energy. The total wave resource around the UK, with its thousands of miles of coastline, is thought to be equivalent to 2-3 times our current electricity demand. In practice, it is estimated that nearly 10% of our electricity needs could be met by tidal power.
A key benefit of tidal power is its consistency and predictability, compared with solar or wind energy.
Types of wave power generators include:
Types of wave power generators include:
Oscillating water column
Buoyant moored devices
Hinged contour devices
Types of tidal power generators include:
Tidal barrages
Tidal turbines
Tidal fences (a combination of the previous two)