Which among the following is not an adverse environmental impact of tidal power generation?

Question

Examoogle · Accepted Answer

Option D: None of the mentioned

Explanation & Concepts:
Tidal power generation involves capturing the energy from the movement of tides caused by gravitational forces. All the listed options describe well-documented ecological and operational challenges associated with the construction and operation of tidal barrages and turbines.

Working Principle: Tidal energy plants function by trapping water during high tide and releasing it through turbines during low tide to generate electricity. This creates a barrier in the estuary, which interrupts natural sedimentation, aquatic migration paths, and water circulation patterns, inherently leading to the mentioned environmental and navigational issues.

Key Formulas: $P = \frac{1}{2} \rho A v^3$ — Kinetic energy power equation where $\rho$ is water density, $A$ is turbine area, and $v$ is tidal velocity.; $E = \int P dt$ — Total energy captured over a tidal cycle.

Key Points: Tidal barrages significantly alter the hydraulic regime of estuaries.; Rotating turbine blades pose direct physical threats to marine life.; Reduced flushing time in estuaries can lead to sediment accumulation and concentration of pollutants.; The presence of physical structures in navigation channels restricts commercial and recreational vessel movement.

Advantages: Predictable energy source due to known lunar cycles; High energy density compared to wind; Long operational lifespan of infrastructure

Disadvantages: High initial capital investment for coastal construction; Interruption of marine ecosystems and migration routes; Limited site availability to specific geographic coastal areas

Applications: Utility-scale coastal power grids; Direct charging for remote coastal communities

Additional Info: Option A: The physical presence of turbines and change in currents disrupts spawning grounds.. Option B: By blocking tidal flow, the flushing capacity of an estuary is reduced, leading to stagnant conditions and accumulation of contaminants.. Option C: Barrages and fences create permanent physical obstacles for ships and boats.

Answer: D is correct — All the listed options are significant adverse environmental or operational impacts associated with tidal energy projects.

Exam Tip: Always verify if a 'None of the above' option includes environmental or socio-economic impacts that are typically externalities of large-scale infrastructure projects.

Examoogle · Answer

Option A: Interference with spewing and migration of fish

Examoogle · Answer

Option B: Pollution and health hazard in the estuary due to blockage of flow of polluted water into the sea

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Option C: Navigational hazard

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