Recent research conducted at the Jangjuk Strait, a promising site for tidal current energy in Korea, has unveiled critical insights into the vertical tidal current profiles that could revolutionize the way tidal energy projects are designed and implemented. Led by Uk-Jae Lee from the Ocean Space Development and Energy Research Department at the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, this study emphasizes the importance of field-measured data in accurately estimating the parameters that govern tidal current behavior.
With the global push toward renewable energy sources to combat climate change, understanding tidal currents has never been more crucial. The study highlights that traditional mathematical models, while useful, often fall short when applied to specific tidal current energy sites due to their unique characteristics. “To optimize tidal energy resources, we must accurately identify the characteristics of tidal flows,” Lee explained. This research fills a significant gap by providing empirical data gathered over two months using an acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP), allowing for a nuanced analysis of the Jangjuk Strait.
The findings reveal that the power law exponent and bed roughness values are distinct from those commonly used in tidal energy assessments. The study estimates the power law parameter, α, to be between 4.51 and 12.41, and bed roughness values between 0.38 and 0.42. These figures suggest that the conventional power law exponent of 1/7 may not be suitable for fast tidal current sites like Jangjuk Strait. Instead, a power law exponent of 1/10 or 1/11, along with a bed roughness of 0.4, appears to be more appropriate for optimizing tidal energy extraction in these environments.
This research has significant commercial implications for the energy sector. By refining the understanding of vertical tidal current profiles, developers can enhance the efficiency and reliability of tidal energy converters (TECs). “A cautious approach is needed when developing fast tidal current velocity sites, particularly in the context of tidal energy farms and marine structures,” Lee cautioned. This insight could lead to better site assessments, improved energy output predictions, and ultimately, more successful tidal energy projects.
As the world shifts towards sustainable energy solutions, the study published in the Journal of Marine Science and Engineering (translated from Korean) underscores the necessity of integrating field data into the design and operation of tidal energy systems. The ongoing research aims to gather more data from diverse sites, further enhancing the understanding of tidal current behaviors and their implications for energy production.
For those interested in the future of renewable energy, this research not only sheds light on the complexities of tidal current dynamics but also paves the way for more effective and commercially viable tidal energy solutions. As we turn to the oceans for energy, studies like this are crucial for harnessing the full potential of our marine resources. For more information about the research team, visit the Ocean Space Development and Energy Research Department.
