Technology - Tidal Illustrations - Input / Output Diagrams

A tidal lagoon captures the rise and fall of the tides and uses the varying water levels to generate electricity by means of conventional low-head turbine/generator sets. Mechanically, it is similar to a dam, but a dam that operates in two directions, filling and emptying. The impoundment holds water out (or in) until the difference in water levels reaches a minimum "head" [i] whereupon generation commences and the impoundment water level “follows” the tidally-changing water level outside.

Diagram 1: Electricity Generating During Outflow

Diagram 2: Electricity Generating During Inflow

Notes

[i] “Head” is a hydroelectric term that refers to pressure times flow. Dams create higher heads and more power than the natural conditions.