Harnessing Renewable Energy: Eolian and Tidal Power Explained
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EOLIC ENERGY
1. How It Is Obtained and Its Characteristics
- It is obtained from the wind's kinetic energy.
- The sun heats the Earth's air unevenly. The temperature differences in different locations cause air masses to move.
Characteristics of Wind:
- Speed: Higher wind speed results in greater power generation.
- Permanent Wind Zones: Areas with consistent wind patterns are ideal for wind energy production.
- Elevation: Wind speeds are typically higher at higher elevations.
- Power Density: Measured in watts per square meter (W/m²).
2. Parts of a Wind Power Plant
- Propeller (Blades):
- Number of blades varies depending on the motor (typically one to six).
- Made from lightweight materials like carbon fiber.
- Spin the shaft, which drives the generator.
- Types: Horizontal-axis (more common) and vertical-axis.
- Aerogenerator (Generator):
- Located near the propeller.
- Transforms kinetic energy from the rotating blades into electrical energy.
- Some aerogenerators have microprocessors to control blade orientation for optimal performance.
- Tower:
- Supports the propeller and aerogenerator.
- Typically constructed from steel to withstand vibrations and provide structural integrity.
To connect to the electrical grid, the generated electricity must have a frequency of 50Hz. A regulator controls the turbine's speed to maintain a constant rotation rate and ensure consistent frequency output.
TIDAL ENERGY
1. Definition & Parts
Tidal energy is a form of hydropower that harnesses the energy from tides to generate electricity. It requires a significant difference between high and low tide levels (ideally 5 meters or more). Tides are more predictable than wind or solar resources.
Parts of a Tidal Power Plant:
- Dam: Prevents water from escaping the reservoir.
- Tidal Barrage: Separates the water reservoir from the open sea.
- Gates: Opened and closed to control the flow of water and initiate electricity generation.
- Turbine: Converts the potential energy of water into rotational kinetic energy.
- Generator: Transforms the mechanical energy from the turbine into electrical energy.
- Transformer: Increases the voltage of the generated electricity for efficient distribution.
2. Process of Tidal Power Generation
- Rising Tide: As the tide rises, seawater flows into the reservoir, turning the turbine and generator to produce electricity.
- High Tide: At the peak of high tide, the turbine may act as a pump to further fill the reservoir.
- Falling Tide: As the tide recedes, water flows back out to sea, again driving the turbine and generator to produce electricity.
- Low Tide: At the lowest point of low tide, the turbines may operate as pumps to empty the reservoir, preparing for the next tidal cycle.