Pros and Cons of Tidal Power

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Tidal Power

Abstract:

Tidal power is a type of energy source that is slowly becoming more prominent as our energy crisis continues. Using a combination of dams, fences, and turbines, many countries are utilizing the almost untapped resources of inexhaustible tidal power. Created due to the gravitational forces of the moon, the tides of the day are highly predictable and can be used incredibly efficiently. This type of energy is ever so slightly gaining popularity as companies fight for coastal rights. The economic and environmental aspects of this industry are also constantly changing as the world struggles to replace its addiction on fossil fuels. All these factors contribute to the pro’s and con’s of the tidal power industry.

Background:

Renewable resources are becoming important as fossil fuel costs rise and global warming continues. Tidal power, though only used for currently 0.01 percent of the US energy, is slowly becoming a topic of importance in this desperate economy.

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine whether or not tidal power is an appropriate resource for our growing energy needs as a flourishing global economy? Both the advantages and disadvantages of tidal power will be evaluated in the context of costs/benefits, ways of obtaining power, and environmental harms.

Discussion:

Costs/Benefits: Many companies are fighting for the rights of only a limited amount of coast line available for tidal power. Congress filters through the tons of requests only selecting a small lucky few of investors to harness the precious energy available through tidal power.

Tidal energy could only be harnessed in places with significant water level changes. The conversion of the potential energy that the tides wi...

... middle of paper ...

...he Simplified Mathematics of Tidal Power." Oxford Journals. 2 Mar. 2004. 30 July 2008 .

Tander, Simon. "How Tidal Power Plants Work." About.com. 30 Mar. 2007. 28 July 2008 .

"Tidal Power - Generating electricity from tidal currents." Tidal Power. 30 Feb. 2008. 20 July 2008 .

"Tidal power." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 29 Jul 2008, 15:35 UTC. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 30 Jul 2008 .

"Tidal Power." Blue Energy. 6 Dec. 2005. 29 July 2008

"Tidal Power." Tidal Power. 12 Jan. 2000. 28 July 2008 .

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