Ocean energy
- Ocean energy refers to all forms of renewable energy derived from the sea
There are 3 main types of ocean energy: tidal, wave and thermal.
TIDAL ENERGY
What is tidal energy?
Tidal energy is a energy that is harnessed by converting energy from tides into forms of power mainly electricity,
although it is not yet widely used, it has the potential for future electricity generation because tide are more predictable
than sun and wind.
Tidal energy can be created from several technologies.
Tidal turbines - Is like a wind turbine but under water. Electricity is generated when the mechanical
energy of tidal current turns the turbines connected to a generator. (Horizontal axis turbine)
Tidal barrage – are the most effective tidal energy source, tidal barrage is a dam that utilizes the
potential energy generated by the change in height between high and low tides. (Horizontal axis
turbine) or (Enclosed tip)
Tidal fence – tidal fences are turbine that operates like a giant turnstile. (Vertical-axis turbines)
Ocean currents generates more energy than air currents because ocean water is 832 times denser than air, therefore
applies greater force on the turbine.
WAVE ENERGY
What is wave energy?
Wave energy is a form of renewable energy that can be harnessed from the motion of the waves. There are several
methods of harnessing wave energy.
There are 3 types of wave energy technologies
OSCILLATING WATER COLUMN - Wave energy is a form of renewable energy that can be harnessed from the
motion of the waves. There are several methods of harnessing wave energy.
(wells turbine)
2 types of oscillating water column
FIXED
FLOATING
these types of conversion devices store the captured air pocket above a water column through a semi-submerged
chamber. By the up and down movement of ocean waves, the chamber becomes an engine that forces the air inward
and outward.
OSCILLATING BODIES - Oscillating bodies are arrangements of physical structures that move with waves and
capture their kinetic energy.
OVERTOPPING - Some terminators utilize reflecting arms, which overflow the peak and are controlled in the
reservoir. Using the low head hydraulic turbines, the potential energy formed by the height of accumulated
water over the wave surface is converted into electrical power.
(low head turbine)
