Tidal Energy: Renewable and Sustainable

Is Tidal Energy Renewable or Non-Renewable?

Tidal energy is renewable because it uses tides as its supplier. In other words, the source of energy can be easily restored after use. Also, it produces energy at a higher rate than it is consumed, considering that energy is constantly being produced with the movement of the tide.

Tidal Energy Process

The process begins by placing a turbine on a coastal line with high tidal movement. These turbines are made to use the kinetic energy from the tides in order to produce electricity. Attached to the generator is a rod which then attaches to the rotor. When the turbine uses the kinetic energy by turning due to the tides, the rotor filled with magnets turns and generates electrical energy.

Economic Advantage

It's a reliable source: Tidal energy works based on the way the tides react. For this reason, it is a reliable source of energy as we can understand the tide cycle, and we know when there will be high and low amounts of energy created. Thus, also stabilizing the amount of money produced.

Social Advantages

Gives job opportunities near the region in which tidal energy is produced.

Environmental Advantages

In terms of the environmental pillar, one advantage of tidal energy is its sustainability. It does not emit any form of pollutants; therefore, it can be considered clean or harmless to the environment. There is no direct greenhouse gas emission.

Economic Disadvantages

High upfront cost and expensive tidal technology.

Social Disadvantages

Sometimes placed on beaches, which makes the people that normally visit that part of the ocean/beach go find somewhere else.

Environmental Disadvantage

Tidal technology might kill marine life.