In a significant stride towards sustainable energy solutions, a recent study conducted in Khenifiss Lagoon, located along the southern Atlantic coast of Morocco, has unveiled promising prospects for tidal energy extraction. The research, led by Hamza El Behja from the Research Laboratory in Applied and Marine Geosciences, Geotechnics and Geohazards at Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, highlights the lagoon’s potential as a viable source of renewable energy, harnessing the power of tidal currents at varying water depths.
With the global economy increasingly seeking alternatives to fossil fuels due to their environmental repercussions, the study underscores the importance of coastal lagoons as untapped reservoirs of tidal energy. “The hydrodynamics of the lagoon are primarily driven by tides, with a semi-diurnal cycle that creates consistent current velocities,” El Behja explained. “Our measurements indicate that certain depth layers are particularly well-suited for energy conversion, which could significantly contribute to local energy needs while maintaining the ecological integrity of this protected area.”
The research utilized advanced technology, specifically the Multicell Argonaut-XR Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP), to measure current velocities across different depths. The findings revealed that at Station 1, layers between -2 to -5 meters exhibited average power densities ranging from 54.926 W/m² to 65.223 W/m². Similarly, Station 2 showed favorable conditions with power densities between 23.911 W/m² and 36.630 W/m². Such data is critical for informing future tidal energy projects, offering a clear picture of where energy extraction could be most effective.
The implications of this research extend beyond academic interest; they signal a potential shift in energy strategies for coastal communities. By leveraging the natural tidal flows, local energy consumption could become more sustainable, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels. “This study provides a foundation for future assessments and could pave the way for the development of tidal energy technologies in the region,” El Behja noted, emphasizing the dual benefit of energy production and environmental preservation.
As the energy sector grapples with the challenges of transitioning to low-carbon sources, the findings from Khenifiss Lagoon could serve as a model for similar coastal environments worldwide. The research, published in ‘Ecological Engineering & Environmental Technology’, illustrates the importance of integrating ecological considerations into energy development, ensuring that progress does not come at the expense of natural ecosystems.
For more information on the research and its implications, you can visit the lead_author_affiliation.
