Potentially, there is an estimated energy production of seven hundred terawatt-hour per year around the world from tidal energy. But the production of tidal energy is still in its development stage so it does not quite compete with fossil fuels.
However, the demand for clean energy and renewable energy sources contributes to the increased development of methods for harnessing this type of energy source. So, thoughts on the positive or negative impact of adapting tidal energy are presented here.
List of Pros of Tidal Energy
1. Renewable Energy Source.
Tidal energy sources like others are formed due to several factors from nature. This source, for example, results from the gravitational fields of the moon and the sun and combined with the rotation of the earth around its axis. Compared to nuclear reserves and fossil fuels, the sources of energy which causes it to exist won’t stop or cease to be any time soon.
2. Green Energy.
Apart from being renewable, tidal energy is environmentally friendly. It does not emit any gases or does not take too much space. Nowadays, there are still a few examples of tidal power plants and their impact on the environment. Hence, it still requires a lot of studies and assessment though to determine them.
3. High Predictability.
The tidal currents are so predictable. In this, well-known cycles will develop low or high tides which make it easier to set up a system with the right dimensions. This can be done because the type of powers in which the equipment will be exposed to have already been determined. Therefore, although tidal stream generators are the same with wind turbines, the installed capacity and the physical size have entirely different limitations.
List of Cons of Tidal Energy
1. Environmental Impact.
Based from studies, the impact of tidal power plants on the environment are not determined yet. Therefore, there is a possibility of adverse effects to the environment. Although it generates green electricity, the creation of tidal barrage will rely on the modification of ocean levels. To this effect, they have the same impact as creating hydroelectric dams.
2. Operates Near Land.
There is a need for tidal power plants to be built close to land. This is expected because this is likewise an area where technical solutions are being developed. Perhaps there are alternate locations out in the sea where a weaker tidal current can be exploited in the future.
3. Costly Project to Develop.
The technique of generating electricity with the use of tidal energy is a new technology. Therefore, potential locations and related resources may result to spending a lot more than the budget. However, it is speculated that tidal energy should be profitable by 2020 with the use of larger scales and much better technology.
Final Thoughts
The creation of tidal energy sources can be a very attractive project, particularly so in the plan of creating cleaner and greener energy. However, it can have adverse effects for the environment without proper research and implementation. Perhaps the said pros and cons can offer you a much better view on what to expect in the next few decades to come.