![A single stretch of water could generate enough renewable tidal energy to power nearly half of Scotland, according to a study by engineers at the […]](/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/NEWSICON2-620x300.png "Tidal Turbines Could Power Half of Scotland")
A single stretch of water could generate enough renewable tidal energy to power nearly half of Scotland, according to a study by engineers at the Universities of Oxford and Edinburgh. The study, released on January 19th, is the most detailed investigation yet of the exact potential power of turbines placed in Pentland Firth, a path of water between mainland Scotland and Orkney and home to some of the fastest tides in the British isles.
The study aimed to produce a more precise estimate of the potential energy which might be yielded from tidal power, with previous estimates ranging from 1-18 gigawatts (GW). By precisely analysing the interactions between turbines and the tides, the engineers came to a figure of around 1.9 GW – enough to provide for 43% of Scotland’s electricity consumption. The entire breadth of water would need to be covered in order to reach this potential, but the UK Crown Estate has identified several sites that would ensure full use of the tidal power while not infringing on sea life and shipping trade.
Tidal power is thought to represent a promising alternative to other renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. It has, however, been criticised for disrupting marine wildlife, and there is potential for chemical damage from corroding metal parts and leaking mechanical fluids. Pentland Firth is also extremely far north, meaning that engineers will be regularly confronted with freezing cold, wind and rain. Scotland, sometimes referred to as the Saudi Arabia of renewable energy potential, is still, however, home to some of the most powerful tides in the UK, and could present a promising alternative for renewable energy.
Read more here: http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2014-01/uoe-icc011714.php
