Annotated Summary on Tidal energy (Final)

Ahmad K. (2016). Tidal power technology review with potential applications in Gulf Stream. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 69, 435-441. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2016.11.150

This article discusses the benefits and feasibility of tidal energy as a clean power source to meet the world's electricity demands, highlighting that tidal energy is a more reliable energy source as compared to other existing solutions like solar, wind or nuclear energy. The article deduced this because of the estimated tidal energy dissipated from the earth of 3.5TWatts, which is significantly higher than most clean energy sources. The article also states that tidal energy is “induced from the gravitational and centrifugal forces between the earth, moon and sun”, this allows the energy source to be analysed, making it predictable and reliable. In this article, the benefits, challenges and solutions of hydro power generators were discussed. Challenges include mainly corrosive seawater environment and low current speeds. The solutions to overcome these challenges, if implemented correctly, can result in tidal energy becoming the main power supply to the world.

The article also provides useful insights for our research project on enhancing a Seabin with the use of hydro turbines. For the Seabin to function on its own and to be implemented offshore, a sustainable energy source has to be added to its design. The article justifies that hydro power would be the optimal power adaptation for the Seabin to function as compared to other sources like solar or wind because of its predictability and reliability. Also, as the aim of the Seabin is to be located at rivers or oceans where tidal current is abundant, the hydro turbines will be able to function efficiently. The article also helps us understand the possible challenges that comes along with hydro turbines and suggests solutions to overcome them.