Tidal Power

TIDAL POWER

By Anton Antonio

October 12, 2015

Our search of alternative sources of energy to replace fossil fuels is never-ending.  Thanks to scientist, other alternatives to carbon-emitting resources have been discovered and/or developed.  One of these renewable sources of energy, which is not too popular or has less awareness, is tidal power.  For us to understand better what this is all about, here is a researched material on tidal power.

“Tidal power is a new form of alternative energy that will help stop climate change by reducing our carbon footprint.  Tidal energy is produced by utilizing the “ebb tidal energy generation”.  It is a method that uses a dam-like structure placed at the mouth of a water source leading into the ocean.  This causes the water to travel through it.  During high tide the gates to the dam will close and during low tide it opens again which generates electricity from turbines inside the area as it flows back and forth.  Some of these barrages (dam-like structures) also allow access for boats to come in and out of the contained area.  This permits tidal energy production without any interruptions in transportation or shipping.  Another reason why some prefer this option of generation is because it is very cheap to maintain, compared to other options out there.  The main downfall, however, is the upfront cost of building the structure in the beginning.  Once it is built, though, it’s easy to operate and harness the energy.  The difference between tidal and wave power are the following: Firstly, wave power is generated by both the wind as well as the waves the ocean makes.  Tidal energy, on the other hand, harnesses the gravitational pull from the sun and moon, and takes advantage of the tides as they become high and low.  Generally, this type of power produces an energy that is more dependable because it is consistent.  Consequently, it is a form of renewable energy and will help stop climate change. Why is this option better, or more efficient, than wave power?  The reason that some may prefer this form of alternative energy is due to the fact that a power harnesses energy from the wind (which in turn makes waves), so it’s less stable and consistent.  Wave power also costs a bit more than tidal power, so that helps to make the latter more favourable.  There are many options available to produce energy, but these two are picking up in popularity fast.  Also, it does not release any greenhouse gasses emissions and is thus a sustainable means to make electricity.  Clearly, it is a great improvement over fossil fuels and even hydroelectricity which will inundate entire forests, destroy precious ecosystems and force people from their homes, is not as sustainable.  Finally, the more people understand these different ways to produce electricity and energy, the sooner we can find a suitable way to produce it without damaging the atmosphere more than we absolutely have to.  This type of energy production will help generations to come and it will enable people to save our precious resources and still live comfortably within their means.” --- Climate Change Guide

Our total coastline (between islands) is longer than continental United States.  The Philippines, being an archipelago, is a perfect fit for tidal power. 

Thoughts to promote positive action…

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REFERENCE:

Climate Change Guide, (2015). “Tidal Power”. Retrieved on October 12, 2015 from http://www.climate-change-guide.com/tidal-power.html