Tidal Energy Danny Hamilton Katrina Bridgett How Does

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 Environment al 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 Co 2. • 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.