Huge Energy Potential of the Tides
Tides are driven by the gravitational effects of the Sun and the Moon on our seas. This creates a twice-daily rise and fall in sea levels. The rhythm of the tides is predictable and so is the output of the energy produced by tidal devices. Electricity can be generated from tidal energy using barrages or dams in places where the tide moves in and out of the bay or inlet, or from tidal streams which drive underwater turbines.
- The twice-daily movement of the tides causes water to flow from areas of high tidal height to areas of low tidal height. A fast moving tidal stream occurs where this flow is restricted, such as between islands and around headlands.
- Tidal stream devices are placed directly into the tidal streams and extract energy as water flows over the device, similar to a wind turbine.
- This movement is converted into electricity by generators within the devices.
- The power is then connected to the electricity grid via a substation on land.
We are working with Lunar Energy to develop a tidal stream energy project located in Pembrokeshire, Wales/UK.
In 2009 the UK Department of Energy & Climate Change announced that it will undertake a complete Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of English and Welsh waters. This study will look at the potential for wave and tidal technologies around the English and Welsh coasts and will take account of existing research, including the SEA carried out for offshore wind, the Welsh Marine Energy Strategic Plan and other studies.
We are awaiting for the results of the SEA to be published before taking the next steps with our proposed development.
In 2009 the UK Department of Energy & Climate Change announced that it will undertake a complete Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of English and Welsh waters. This study will look at the potential for wave and tidal technologies around the English and Welsh coasts and will take account of existing research, including the SEA carried out for offshore wind, the Welsh Marine Energy Strategic Plan and other studies.
We are awaiting for the results of the SEA to be published before taking the next steps with our proposed development.
