getijstromturbines

Getijstromturbines, or tidal stream turbines, are underwater devices that convert the kinetic energy of tidal currents into electrical power. They are a subset of marine energy technologies and are designed to operate in fast-flowing tidal channels.

Operation and design: Getijstromturbines are installed on the seabed, anchored with moorings or fixed foundations, and connected by submarine cables to the onshore grid. Most devices use a horizontal-axis rotor similar to a wind turbine, though some designs employ vertical-axis or cross-flow configurations to cope with strong currents and marine conditions. Turbines are often deployed in arrays to increase total output, with power management and grid connection coordinated from shore.

Sites and performance: Tidal streams offer predictable energy, with output modulated by the tidal cycle. Demonstration and commercial projects have operated in Scotland’s Pentland Firth (notably MeyGen), in Northern Ireland’s Strangford Lough (SeaGen project), and at other locations such as the Bay of Fundy and European Marine Energy Centre test sites in Orkney. Capacity factors vary with site and technology, and grid integration depends on cable quality and substation infrastructure.

Benefits and challenges: The technology provides a relatively small surface footprint and predictable generation, but faces high upfront costs, corrosion, biofouling, and maintenance challenges in harsh marine environments. Economic viability hinges on device reliability, mooring longevity, installation costs, and efficient subsea electricity transmission. Environmental and navigational impacts are assessed during consenting and ongoing monitoring.

History: Early demonstrations in the 2000s led to several full-scale deployments and ongoing research to improve reliability and cost. Technical development continues across international test centers and industrial projects.

See also: tidal energy, offshore wind, marine energy, subsea cables.