Harnessing the Ocean's Power: Tidal Energy's Rise

Tidal energy is gaining attention as a dependable source of clean power. Unlike solar and wind, it's not affected by weather changes. This makes it a strong contender in the renewable energy mix. However, it's still in its early stages of commercial use. There are different types of tidal energy. Tidal power uses the rising and falling of tides. Wave power uses the movement of waves. Current power uses the energy from marine currents. And ocean thermal energy conversion uses the temperature difference in water. All these methods generate electricity in unique ways. The tidal energy market is expected to grow significantly. By 2032, it could reach $1. 85 billion, up from $983. 11 million in 2024. This growth is driven by the need for reliable and predictable energy sources. Tidal energy is set to boost grid reliability worldwide. Its predictable generation cycles help utilities plan better. Plus, it reduces dependence on foreign energy and fossil fuels. This is crucial for coastal nations focusing on energy security.Currently, tidal energy systems dominate the market. They are seen as more reliable than wave energy. However, wave energy is expected to catch up after 2028 as technology improves. Europe is leading the way in tidal power. Countries like the U. K. , France, Norway, and Portugal are at the forefront. Scotland, in particular, is a hub for tidal power projects. It has the expertise and infrastructure to support this growing industry. The MeyGen project in Scotland is a success story. It has been operating for over six years, proving that tidal turbines can withstand harsh conditions. This has encouraged more investment and expansion plans. Meanwhile, a $14. 9 billion tidal power project is proposed off the coast of Somerset. This could meet the U. K. 's growing energy demand. However, it needs government support to move forward. Tidal energy is on the rise. With more investment and successful projects, it could play a big role in the future of renewable energy.