What are the advantages of tidal energy?
* Tidal energy is free once it has been built. * There is low visual impact of offshore turbines. * Tides can be predicted years in advance, unlike the wind. * It doesn’t need any fuel, and there are no emissions. * Noise pollution is at a minimum. * Off shore turbines aren’t that expensive to make or maintain. What are the disadvantages of tidal energy? * Tidal barrages are expensive to build and maintain. * Tidal barrages also have a big impact on the environment in surrounding areas. It is unclear what the effects are both up and down stream. * Only provides energy for about ten hours a day – this is when the tide is moving in and out. * Needs a suitable site. Will it be used in the future? Tidal power is still very much in its infancy. There are currently about 40 sites worldwide, with a few situated within the UK. Potentially there are 30 suitable sites in the UK that have the potential to be used for tidal power. Further Information For information about grants, click here.
