Description: Marine energy is the energy derived from the ocean, including tidal energy, wave energy, and ocean thermal energy. This form of renewable energy is characterized by its ability to harness the natural resources of the sea, making it a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Tidal energy is generated from the movement of water due to the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun, while wave energy is produced by the movement of the water’s surface caused by the wind. On the other hand, ocean thermal energy is based on the temperature difference between the surface and deep waters of the ocean. Marine energy not only has the potential to reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources but also contributes to climate change mitigation by decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. Its development and utilization are crucial in the pursuit of a more sustainable energy future, as oceans cover over 70% of the Earth’s surface and represent an inexhaustible source of energy if managed properly.
History: Marine energy has been explored for centuries, although its technological development has significantly advanced in recent decades. In the 18th century, the first experiments with tidal energy were conducted in the United Kingdom. However, it was in the 1970s, in response to the oil crisis, that efforts to research and develop marine energy technologies intensified. In 1973, the first tidal energy plant was built in France, marking a milestone in the history of this technology. Since then, several countries have invested in wave and ocean thermal energy projects, seeking to diversify their energy sources and reduce their carbon footprint.
Uses: Marine energy is primarily used for electricity generation. Tidal and wave energy plants convert the movement of water into electrical energy, which can be used to supply local power grids or stored for later use. Additionally, ocean thermal energy can be used for water desalination, providing a vital resource in arid regions. Applications in the transportation industry are also being explored, such as the use of boats powered by wave energy.
Examples: A notable example of marine energy is the La Rance tidal power plant in France, which has been operational since 1966 and is one of the largest in the world. Another case is the Pelamis wave energy project in Scotland, which, although not currently operational, was a pioneer in wave energy conversion technology. Regarding ocean thermal energy, the OTEC project in Hawaii has demonstrated the viability of this technology for electricity generation and desalination.
