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Energy Challenges and Dilemmas

Waves, tides and biofuels: favourable locations

  • 3 things to know
  • Component 3 Section B

Overview

Tidal potential of the Severn Estuary, world's first large tidal power station and food versus fuel argument.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

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Key term

What tidal range is needed for a tidal barrage?

Key term

Why do estuaries have larger tidal ranges than open coasts?

Key term

Describe the tidal potential of the Severn Estuary.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    What tidal range is needed for a tidal barrage?

    Model answer

    A tidal barrage generally needs a mean tidal range of at least 5 m. Smaller ranges cannot drive the turbines economically.

  2. 2

    Why do estuaries have larger tidal ranges than open coasts?

    Model answer

    A funnel-shaped estuary narrows and shallows, which forces the tidal wave to rise higher. Resonance with the tidal period can amplify the range further.

  3. 3

    Describe the tidal potential of the Severn Estuary.

    Model answer

    The Severn Estuary has a spring tidal range approaching 15 m, among the largest in the world. A barrage there could supply several per cent of United Kingdom electricity.

  4. 4

    Name the world's first large tidal power station.

    Model answer

    La Rance in Brittany opened in 1966 with a capacity of 240 MW. The scheme remained the world's largest for over forty years.

  5. 5

    Which tidal power station is now the largest?

    Model answer

    Sihwa Lake in South Korea has a capacity of 254 MW and opened in 2011. The turbines were built into an existing sea wall.

  6. 6

    Distinguish a tidal barrage from a tidal stream scheme.

    Model answer

    A barrage dams an estuary and generates from the head difference between the two sides. A tidal stream scheme places underwater turbines in a fast current with no barrier.

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