Renewable Water Energy Generation: Market Overview

Renewable Water Energy Generation - Renewable water energy generation is key to global decarbonization efforts, supplying sustainable and low-emission electricity.

Renewable water energy generation primarily refers to hydropower but also encompasses other non-hydro technologies that harness the mechanical energy of water bodies.

Tidal Energy: Uses the kinetic energy of tidal movements (the difference between high and low tide). Technologies include Tidal Barrages (similar to dams, but across a bay/estuary) and Tidal Stream Turbines (similar to underwater wind turbines). It is highly predictable but limited by site availability.

Wave Energy: Captures the energy from the surface motion of ocean waves. This field is less mature, with various prototypes like point absorbers, oscillating water columns, and attenuators being developed. It is a massive resource but faces challenges with device survivability and cost.

Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC): Uses the temperature difference between warm surface water and cold deep water to run a heat engine and generate electricity, typically used in tropical regions.

These technologies, while promising, are generally less commercially mature and deployed than traditional hydropower, which remains the most dominant form of water energy.

FAQ on Renewable water energy generation
Besides hydropower, what is the most commercially viable form of water-based renewable energy? Tidal stream energy is considered the most commercially viable, as tidal cycles are highly predictable, offering a reliable power source.

What is the main challenge for deploying wave energy converters? The survivability and durability of the devices in harsh, corrosive ocean environments, particularly during severe storms, pose major engineering and cost challenges.

What is OTEC and where can it be deployed? Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) generates electricity by exploiting the temperature difference between warm surface and cold deep seawater, making it suitable for tropical and sub-tropical regions.