Tidal energy is renewable energy harnessed from the natural rise and fall of sea tides.
Understanding Tidal Energy
The energy obtained from the rise and fall of tides is called tidal energy. This consistent and predictable movement of water is a powerful natural force that can be converted into electricity.
How is Tidal Energy Captured?
One common method for capturing tidal energy involves constructing structures called tidal barrages or dams.
- Construction: These barrages are built across a narrow opening to the sea, such as an estuary or bay.
- Water Flow: When the sea level rises during high tide, water rushes into the area behind the dam.
- Turbine Activation: As the water flows through openings in the dam, it moves the blades of the turbines which are attached at the opening of the dam. These spinning turbines drive generators to produce electricity.
This process effectively converts the potential energy of the high tide water into kinetic energy that powers the turbines. During low tide, the water behind the barrage can be released back into the sea, often powering the turbines again as it flows out.
Tidal energy represents a reliable source of renewable power due to the predictable nature of tides.
