Intertek has published a study on the influence of storm surge on tidal range energy as part of tidal energy research done in collaboration with leading academic institutions.
The research paper on tidal energy was written by Intertek Energy & Water expert Paul Evans in conjunction with Bangor University’s School of Ocean Sciences, Cardiff University’s School of Engineering, and Imperial College London’s Department of Earth Science and Engineering.
The researchers found that storm surge influence to tidal range power varied with the electricity generation strategy considered, such as flooding tide only, ebb-only, or dual – both flood and ebb, but with some spatial and temporal variability.
The flood-only strategy was most affected by storm surge, mostly likely because tide-surge interaction increases the chance of higher water-levels on the flooding tide, it is stated in the paper.
Simon Neill , Co-author and Senior Lecturer at Bangor University, said: “Fundamental research which quantifies the tidal range resource is essential for growth in this industry. We find that working in partnership with industry is particularly fulfilling for these types of studies, and all parties have much to benefit from the knowledge exchange that results from such collaborations.”
The study is the result of a number of marine energy-related projects, conducted by Intertek Energy and Water, including an assessment of the water quality issues affecting the proposed Swansea Bay Lagoon, a number of resource and environmental assessments across the UK, as well as metocean and sediment transport studies.
Paul Evans , Intertek Energy and Water, said: “It is great to be partnering with world-class researchers on topical studies in a country that is blessed with a vast tidal energy resource. The potential for capturing and harnessing tidal energy in the UK is high and therefore these types of projects are imperative to ensure the success of such schemes.”
Intertek Energy and Water provides consulting services for power transmission, renewable energy, oil and gas, water, and ports and harbors.