Hydrokinetic marine energy is a renewable source of power. It comes from the natural motion of water. This includes tides, waves, ocean, and river currents. It can also come through changes in temperature in water via the process of conversion of ocean thermal energy. In this article, we will learn about the marine kinetic energy and how it works.
How Does It Works?
Marine energy technologies harness the kinetic energy from currents, waves, tides, and the thermal energy. We can also achieve it by deep cold water to convert surface water to create pure energy. For instance, specific wave energy converters use buoys to harness energies from waves. While turbines can draw power from currents and tides.
Images of underwater currents and shots of fish and plants in the water.
Water-based devices must function under extreme and turbulent conditions. They should be designed to withstand powerful forces and impacts which the debris causes. Naturally, they must also protect the nature of the marine ecosystem.
Pictures of cities along the coast.
One of the most significant advantages of developing marine power, also known as “ocean power” is that most of the water sources are right there where they are needed in the areas with the highest population. Nearly half of Americans reside near coastlines where the power potential of oceans is at its highest, and certain cities and towns could use tidal power.
The Future of MHK
The potential of energy from the ocean is immense and estimated the generation between 100 and 400 percent of the world’s energy needs. Most experts in the industry view marine kinetic energy as a supplement to the existing renewable sources that provide stable and predictable production to reduce fluctuations in energy demand.
Although there are some uncertainties regarding the final path of MHK, there is massive support for the development of MHK from governments around the globe. We’re optimistic that MHK will follow the wind industry’s path and be a critical factor in our future renewable energy!
Marine energy technologies harness the kinetic energy from currents, waves, tides, and the thermal energy. We can also achieve it by deep cold water to convert surface water to create pure energy. For instance, specific wave energy converters use buoys to harness energies from waves. While turbines can draw power from currents and tides.
In this situation, Marine energy is the solution. Ocean waves generate the energy to power the device, resulting in a more significant power source to power our daily routines. The energy generated by marine sources also doesn’t leave a greenhouse effect, meaning our environment is secure.
When we realize that marine energy can provide a solution for our planet, what exactly is the purpose of marine energy? We are certainly interested in how this energy can positively impact our world. In addition, we have to understand its advantages and drawbacks to plan the use of this energy source.
Types of Marine Energy
Marine energy comes in many forms of energy. They include tidal energy, waves energy, ocean current energy, thermal energy from the sea, and osmotic energy.
Wave energy
The waters that lie off Canada’s Pacific and Atlantic coasts are rich in waves energy resources. Approximately 37,000 MW of wave energy is available in the waters of the country’s Pacific coast, which is more than 55 percent of the country’s energy consumption.