TIDAL POWER

The power of the tide can be seen in this photograph. It shows people running for their lives from a powerful tidal wave which has crashed over a river wall (China 2000). If tidal power can be harnessed electricity can be produced in large quantities.

Tidal power is from the tidal action of the sea. As the sea flows towards the land and up an estuary more and more pressure builds up. If a barrage / dam is built across the estuary electrical power can be produced. The advantage of this type of ‘water power’ is that electrical power can be produced as the sea flows away from the land as well.
A big disadvantage of this method of producing electricity is that it is very expensive.

THE PROPOSED BRISTOL CHANNEL TIDAL POWER SCHEME

There is much interest in the use of tidal energy especially the development of large scale tidal power schemes. The power is obtained through the flow of water when filling and emptying partially closed sea basins. A proposed scheme exists for the Bristol Channel (UK). As the tide runs into the 'low' basin it drives turbines and as the tide retreats, again turbines are turned - producing large amounts of electricity. Unfortunately this scheme has been 'shelved' due to cost and possible damage to the local ecology.

Draw a simple diagram to represent each type of alternative energy. Next to each, explain the advantages and disadvantages AND also the long term environmental effects.

Consider the following points: How much will it cost? Will it damage the environment? Will it produce much power? Does it require maintenance? Is it easy to set up / construct? Is it on a small or large scale? Do you think people will want it? Will it be efficient?

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