Implementation of tidal energy convertor in low current area

초록

Tidal current can be used in power generation with exact predictability and continuity regardless of seasons. Even the high tidal current speed would yield large energy generation, not many locations possess these advantages. Therefore, it is required to develop the micro-scale marine turbine to extend the feasible areas having low tidal velocity. This paper introduces the development process for harvesting ocean energy for local small-scale usage. A small scale tidal device has been developed with the site conditions obtained from survey and numerical simulation and installed near Hong Kong’s west coast in Tuen Mun. The duct was attached to amplify the current speed to the rotor. A prototype turbine was deployed and installed and tested of its performance. The field records validated the numerical simulation results and it demonstrated the feasibility of using micro-scale ocean turbine as part of a coastline urban application and development. © 2019 Taylor & Francis Group, London.