Spatial and temporal variations of the flow characteristics at a tidal stream power site: A high-resolution numerical study

Abstract

The upcoming commercial development of tidal stream power requires a profound knowledge of tidal streams. In this article, the spatial and temporal variations of the flow characteristics are investigated through numerical simulations, at fine spatial and temporal resolutions. The study highlights the necessity of local site characterisation prior to turbine installation, due to the high spatial variability of the flow characteristics over distances of less than 100 m. The high variability in space and time of the flow characteristics at the scale of a turbine and its impact on the blade angle of attack underscore the relevance of a good blade pitch control strategy. The study of extreme events in term of maximal flow velocity and variations in the flow direction gives insight for the structural dimensioning of future tidal stream power devices.