An operational hydrodynamic model of a key tidal-energy site: Inner Sound of Stroma, Pentland Firth (Scotland, UK)

Matthew Easton, David Kevin Woolf, Sonja Pans

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

    Abstract

    As a result of significant progress towards the delivery of tidal-stream power the industry is moving swiftly towards the deployment of precommercial
    arrays. Meanwhile important sites, such as the Pentland Firth, are being made available for development. It is now crucial that we consider how the installation of tidal-stream devices will interact with their host environment. Surveying
    and modelling of the marine system prior to development is a prerequisite to identifying any significant changes associated with tidal energy deployment.

    Faced with these challenges, this work focuses on the construction of a high-resolution operational model of the Inner Sound of Stroma, Pentland
    Firth. Detailed in situ measurements from the Inner Sound are used to ensure that the model can accurately simulate its true dynamics. The model is
    subsequently modified to simulate an idealised tidal energy fence. Results reveal a significant power potential from the Inner Sound, but with a caveat of
    severe alterations to the natural tidal currents. However, tidal current changes are less severe when considering more modest levels of power extraction.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publication3rd International Conference and Exhibition on Ocean Energy
    PublisherEnte Vasco de la Energía
    Number of pages6
    Publication statusPublished - 2010
    Event3rd International Conference and Exhibition on Ocean Energy - Bilbao, Spain
    Duration: 6 Oct 20108 Oct 2010

    Conference

    Conference3rd International Conference and Exhibition on Ocean Energy
    Country/TerritorySpain
    CityBilbao
    Period6/10/108/10/10

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