vooluhüdraulikajaamu

Vooluhüdraulikajaamad, known in English as "tidal power plants" or "tidal energy converters," are facilities that harness the energy of tidal currents to generate electricity. Unlike tidal barrages, which impound water in a dam-like structure, vooluhüdraulikajaamad typically use underwater turbines that are driven by the natural flow of water during incoming and outgoing tides. These turbines are similar in principle to wind turbines but are designed to operate submerged in water.

The concept relies on the predictable rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun. As water moves between high and low tide, it creates strong currents. Vooluhüdraulikajaamad are strategically placed in areas with significant tidal ranges and strong currents to maximize energy capture. The kinetic energy of the moving water spins the turbine blades, which in turn drive a generator to produce electricity.

There are several types of vooluhüdraulikajaamu, including horizontal-axis turbines, which resemble wind turbines, and vertical-axis turbines, which can capture energy from currents coming from any direction. Some designs also incorporate oscillating hydrofoils that move up and down with the water flow to generate power. The electricity produced is then transmitted to the shore via underwater cables. While still a developing technology, vooluhüdraulikajaamad offer a renewable and predictable source of energy with a relatively small physical footprint compared to some other renewable energy installations. Challenges include the harsh marine environment, potential impacts on marine ecosystems, and the high cost of installation and maintenance.