4 - Tidal Power

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter provides an overview of tidal power. The production of power from the tides to do work is centuries old. Many simple devices were designed using tides to produce power in addition to the windmill type of water wheel found in Holland. The advent of the Francis turbines, which produced electric power cheaply, using thermal electric generating plants as well as hydroelectric, was the death knell for the simple water wheels and similar devices using tidal power. A particular barrage can be designed for maximum capability in a number of directions—maximum net energy output, constant power output, constant hand operation, maximum pumped storage capacity, and lowest capital requirements. Much of the preliminary work is concentrated on the costs of electrical and mechanical equipment and the power output. The complexity and costs of the hydraulic structures depend upon the tidal volume to be harnessed and, in turn, the tidal range. The mechanical and electrical equipment used in a tidal power plant are similar to the river types of hydroelectric projects found worldwide. The chapter examines some of the problems that confront the design teams and structural engineers. The degree will vary from one site to another but the general principles will always apply.