Alternative Energy

The ocean is not just a vast expanse of water but a potent source of energy that can be harnessed in various ways. Let’s delve into the types of ocean energy, their benefits, potential environmental impacts, and the technological innovations that could revolutionize how we use this resource.

What are the types of ocean energy?

Ocean energy is a form of renewable energy that can help power local areas.

There are four types of ocean energy:

1. TIDAL
2. WAVE
3. OCEAN THERMAL CONVERSION (OTEC),
4. SALINITY GRADIENT

Use the interactive below to learn more about each type of energy.

To Recap:

Tidal energy is produced by turbines that capture the natural rise and fall of ocean levels caused by the moon's and sun's gravitational pull.
Wave energy is produced by capturing the movement of surface waves or pressure fluctuations beneath the surface.
OTEC uses temperature differences between deep, cold ocean water and warm tropical surface waters to generate electricity.
Salinity gradient energy harnesses the energy potential from the difference in salt concentration between seawater and freshwater.
The installation and operation of these systems can have significant impacts on marine habitats and ecosystems.
To address these concerns, efforts are being made to improve the sustainability of ocean energy systems.
These include biomimetic turbine designs that optimize fluid dynamics and minimize noise and closed-cycle processes using environmentally benign working fluids to decrease seawater volume and reduce the risk of chemical leakage and thermal pollution.

What's The point_science (1)

This lesson explored four main types of ocean energy: tidal, wave, ocean thermal energy conversion, and salinity gradient energy. Each has unique mechanisms and suitable applications, and ongoing research aims to reduce environmental impacts and increase efficiency.

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[CC BY-NC-SA 4.0] UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED | IMAGES: LICENSED AND USED ACCORDING TO TERMS OF SUBSCRIPTION - INTENDED ONLY FOR USE WITHIN THE LESSON. NOAA video used with permission from site.