Tidal energy: Technologies and recent developments

Tidal energy supply is highly predictable and its energy density is much higher than wind energy. Currently there is a global surge in the interest in this form of renewable energy for electricity generation. In this paper, a review of the past and present developments of hydrodynamics-related technologies for utilizing tidal energy for electricity generation is presented. In particular, several technological issues in the design, analysis, testing and optimization of different types of tidal stream turbines are discussed in detail and compared in terms of their relative advantages and disadvantages. This is followed by a discussion on the current challenges in the commercialization of tidal energy. Finally possible future developments in technological innovation and large-scale commercialization of tidal energy are discussed.