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ABSTRACT
The global potential of economically usable energy is of the order of 1000 TWh/year including 100 TWh/year in France i.e. 20% of its needs. This potential is essentially provided by three large sites closed by dykes 15 to 20 kilometers from the shore: these dykes, by protecting the coastline from severe storms are to prevent the recession of cliffs from High Normandy and the filling of the Somme and Mont Saint-Michel bays. The lakes, thus created, will preserve natural tides which will be delayed by two hours and have a slightly reduced amplitude. the cost is to be lower than 100 €/MWh.
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François LEMPÉRIÈRE: President HydroCoop
INTRODUCTION
Tidal power can be one of the best renewable energies, thanks to its low cost and favorable impact on the power grid and the local economy. The choice of solutions can lead to a very favorable impact on the environment.
The global potential is probably close to 1,000 TWh/year. This potential is concentrated in around ten countries where tidal power can account for a significant share of electricity. This is the case in France, the country best placed by its high tidal potential and proximity to users. Three major sites, to be built between 2030 and 2050, could produce close to 100 TWh/year at less than e100/MWh. Two or three preliminary sites totalling 5 to 10 TWh at a lower cost than offshore wind turbines could be developed before 2030 to clarify impacts and costs in order to optimize the main structures, and to export the technique.
Surprisingly, France, once the leader with the Rance, then totally neglected this option, and now finds itself outstripped in research and development by Russia, and in achievements by Korea.
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KEYWORDS
futures energies | tidal plants | tidal energy | marine energy
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