Optimal phasing of the European tidal stream resource using the greedy algorithm with penalty function

Abstract

a b s t r a c tThe regular periodicity of astronomical tides allows their accurate prediction, and so it should be possible to determine how best to optimise the future distribution of arrays of tidal energy devices for any shelf sea region. By considering together the magnitude and phase of tidal currents over a shelf sea region, maximum aggregated power generation, with minimal periods of low generation, can be deduced. Here, we make use of the greedy algorithm to optimise future exploitation of the tidal stream resource over the northwest European shelf seas, a region which contains a world-leading tidal energy resource. We also apply a penalty function to the greedy algorithm, favouring the selection of future hypothetical sites where power generation would be out-of-phase with previously developed sites. Our results demonstrate that the Pentland Firth and Channel Islands would be optimal sites for parallel development for relatively low numbers of arrays, with important contributions from the Irish Sea for larger scale exploitation. Although there is minimal phase diversity between European tidal stream sites to deliver firm power generation, it is possible that the vertical tide could contribute to such baseload through the parallel development of lagoons or impoundments.

Resource assessment for future generations of tidal-stream energy arrays

“…Moreover, the ROMS model has been successfully employed for multiple tidalstream energy resource studies at various sites around the British Isles [8,10,15]; however, it should be noted that many other suitable models exist, each with benefits and disadvantages, which could produce a similar result to our research.…”

“…When considering tidal phasing solutions to the problem of energy storage and constant electricity production, or "base load" [1,10]; lower peak velocity sites and deeper water locations could be important regions to develop, as well as the inclusion of shallower water sites (h < 25 m): see green coloured sites in Fig. 8.…”

“…8), as well as other practical considerations, such as cabling cost. Hence, to fully and accurately quantify the potential future tidal-stream energy resource (and provide a development roadmap for industry and policy makers), future work should apply phasing solution techniques, such as evolutionary genetic algorithms [10], to high resolution (<1 km horizontal resolution) 3D hydrodynamic models with multiple tidal constituents that Fig. 7.…”

“…Refs. [8,10,15]). The open boundary of the tidal model was forced with Finite Element Solution and data assimilated global tide product; FES2012 [27] using ten tidal constituents (M2, S2, N2, K2, K1, O1, P1, Q1, Mf, and Mm).…”

“…The tidal hydrodynamics of the Irish Sea are considered to be the result of a Kelvin-type wave propagating (from the southwest) along St. George's Channel e with another wave propagating southwards through North Channel [10,16]. The interaction of these 2 K-type waves results in two degenerate (i.e.…”