by Isabella
(Sydney)
Since at least 1958, man has been harnessing the power of tides to produce electricity. But harnessing tide power has been ongoing since prehistoric times.
Tidal power can be classified into two main types:
• Tidal stream systems make use of the kinetic energy from the moving water currents to power turbines, in a similar way to wind mills use moving air. This method is gaining in popularity because of the lower cost and lower ecological impact.
• Barrages make use of the potential energy from the difference in height or Hydraulic head between high and low tides. Barrages suffer from the problems of very high civil infrastructure costs, few viable sites globally and environmental issues.
We need to change our energy sources and many systems that were created long ago crossed with our new technology could just be the answer.
Tidal stream systems such as turbines and water mills are a great way of producing power for communities living near the coastal line. They create a clean power supply with minimum impact to the environment. Although they do not run 24 hours a day, they will decrease greenhouse admissions significantly.
Barrages have been proven to be disruptive and damaging to the ocean eco-system, destroying wildlife and causing pollution to build up in the water. These systems are problematic as they create more problems than they solve.
Simple old school energy systems coincided with our 21st century technology could change the world. Generating power for all communities whether poor or rich and having little effect on the earth. Helping in the fight against global warming.