Tidal Energy
A form of hydropower
Giving you cheap energy since 1960
Tidal power is a way to obtain energy from tides or rivers by rotating turbines that power a generator that stores the electricity. When the tide rises, water flows through the underwater section of the dam where the turbines are. When the turbines spin they power generators that store the electricity they generate. There are some sections for fish to swim through, but these sections are not always open. Once built, they can last a very long time.
Types of Tidal Generators
- Tidal lagoon- circular retaining walls with turbines to convert water flow into energy.
- Tidal stream generator- uses kinetic energy of moving water to power turbines.
- Tidal barrage- they take advantage of different heights of tides through turbines.
- Dynamic tidal power- Never been used but it has potential. Very long dams that can be built from coast to sea.
Facts
- Not widely used, but has potential.
- More predictable than wind and solar power.
- Incoming tides are stored in storage pods.
- As the tide goes out turn water wheels to produce energy.
- The first tidal power plant was made in France.
- Tidal power is an inexhaustible renewable energy source.
- The newest tidal energy design is a tidal lagoon.
- Very high cost to build.
- Low cost to run
- No pollution energy source.
- No fuel needed.
- Requires little maintenance.
Disclaimer
- There are areas for fish to swim through but they close sometimes.
- Can impact aquatic life.
- Not very use full in Eastern South Dakota.