In following the theme of exploring different options to meet the “All-of-the-Above” solution, let’s take a look at tidal power.

Tidal power, like hydropower, is a means of generating electricity using the kinetic energy contained in water currents. It is one of the oldest forms of energy, dating back to the 700’s when European shore villages built tidal mills for use in grain production. There are several mechanisms for generating tidal power, ranging from barrages that look like traditional hydroelectric dams to stream generators that act almost like undersea wind turbines to floating buoys that use wave movements to generate power. They usually resemble dams, stretching across an entire bay, or pylons, standing isolated in a strait or sound.

There are a few tidal power stations scattered across the globe, the largest of which is in Sihwa Lake, South Korea with a 254MW output capacity. Unlike other renewable sources, which may be subject to wind or light deficiencies, tidal power is very predictable. Its primary drawbacks are cost and impediment to local ecosystems, such as fish habitats, though this effect can be mitigated. Ideal placements are uncommon, so siting is also a challenge.

This emissions free source of energy is steadily gaining more recognition in the renewable energy world. A report released by the Electric Power Research Institute estimates that there is 1.17 billion megawatt hours per year of recoverable tidal power along the continental U.S., representing one third of current electrical consumption. A similar report from the Georgia Tech Research Corporation theorizes that 15% of U.S. energy demand could be satisfied using tidal and other water based power generation by 2030.

Two examples of companies currently working on this technology are Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC) and Ocean Power Technologies (OPT). ORPC has projects spanning from Nova Scotia to Alaska. A new project taking off in Maine seeks to make use of the 100 billion ton current which runs in and out of the Bay of Fundy each day. OPT, also with projects in Maine and other parts of the country, has been demonstrating the use of tidal power as a substitute for fossil fuels at Navy and Marine bases.

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