Modelling tidal energy extraction in a depth-averaged coastal domain

An extension of actuator disc theory is used to describe the properties of a tidal energy device, or row of tidal energy devices, within a depth-averaged numerical model. This approach allows a direct link to be made between an actual tidal device and its equivalent momentum sink in a depth-averaged domain. Extended actuator disc theory also leads to a measure of efficiency for an energy device in a tidal stream of finite Froude number, where efficiency is defined as the ratio of power extracted by one or more tidal devices to the total power removed from the tidal stream. To demonstrate the use of actuator disc theory in a depth-averaged model, tidal flow in a simple channel is approximated using the shallow water equations and the results are compared with the published analytical solutions. © 2010 © The Institution of Engineering and Technology

3D modelling of the impacts of in-stream horizontal-axis Tidal Energy Converters (TECs) on offshore sandbank dynamics

The tidal energy sector is a growing industry in the UK and beyond. Energy developers’ interests are progressing towards the deployment of large arrays of tidal energy converters (TECs). Numerous factors will affect decision making related to arrays siting and size. One key factor is the effect that the TEC arrays may have on the natural sediment transport patterns and the sea bottom morphodynamics. The Inner Sound Channel located between the Island of Stroma of Pentland Firth and the Scottish Mainland (UK) has been accredited for a large-scale TEC array installation to be developed in the future. Three morphodynamically active, large sandbanks are located in the Inner Sound channel. This study investigated the impacts of tidal energy extraction from a large array of TECs on the sediment dynamics and morphology of these sandbanks. A large-scale 3D hydrodynamic and morphodynamic Delft3D model was set up to computationally model Pentland Firth, Inner Sound Channel in order to study the impacts of tidal energy extraction from a generic TEC array, on the existing hydrodynamic and morphodynamic regime. A range of hypothetical energy extraction scenarios was modelled. Results reveal that the changes to morphodynamics of these sandbanks as a result of large scale tidal energy extraction far exceeds the morphology change under the natural hydrodynamic regime and that the severity of morphology change depends on the level of energy extraction

Potential Hydrodynamic Impacts and Performances of Commercial-Scale Turbine Arrays in the Strait of Larantuka, Indonesia

The Strait of Larantuka, with highly energetic tidal stream currents reaching speeds of up to 3–4 m/s, is a promising site for renewable electricity production from the ocean. This paper presents the results of an assessment regarding the potential hydrodynamic impacts, wake characteristics, and the performances of large scale turbine arrays in the strait. A high-resolution, three-dimensional baroclinic model is developed using the FLOW module of the Delft3D modeling system to simulate tidal currents. The energy of currents is assumed to be extracted by horizontal-axis tidal turbines, which can harness strong bi-directional flow, positioned on sequential rows and alternating downstream arrangements. Enhanced momentum sinks are used to represent the influence of energy extraction by the tidal turbines. Four different array layouts with rated capacities of up to 35 MW are considered. We find that, in the Strait of Larantuka, array layout significantly affects the flow conditions and the power output, mainly due to the geometric blockage effect of the bounded channel. With respect to undisturbed flow conditions in the strait, decreases in current speeds of up to about 0.6 m/s, alongside increases in the order of 80% near-shore are observed. While operating efficiency rates of turbines reaching around 50%–60% resulted during the spring tide in the arrays with smaller rated capacities, the power output of the devices was negligible during the neap tide

Numerical modelling of hydrodynamics and tidal energy extraction in the Alderney Race: a review

(IF 4.23; Q1)International audienceThe tides are a predictable, renewable, source of energy that if harnessed, can provide significant levels of electricity generation. Alderney Race, with current speeds that exceed 5 m/s during spring tides, is one of the most concentrated regions of tidal energy in the world, with the upper bound resource estimated at 5.1 GW. Due to its significance, the Alderney Race is frequently used for model case studies of tidal energy conversion, and here we review these model applications and outcomes. We examine a range of temporal and spatial modelling scales, from regional models applied to resource assessment and characterisation, to more detailed models that include energy extraction and array optimization. We also examine a range of physical processes that influence the tidal energy resource, including the role of waves and turbulence in tidal energy resource assessment and loadings on turbines. The review discusses model validation, and covers a range of numerical modelling approaches, from 2D to 3D tidal models, two-way coupled wave-tide models, Large Eddy Simulation (LES) models, and the application of optimization techniques. The review contains guidance on model approaches and sources of data that can be used for future studies of the Alderney Race, or translated to other tidal energy regions

Ocean Energy in Belgium - 2019

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