Tidal Power Feasibility Study

View of the city of Campbell River

The City of Campbell River studied the feasibility of using tidal energy to generate electricity. It hoped to install a small demonstration turbine at the municipal pier.

While currents were fast farther out in the Discovery Passage, the study found they were only moderate at the pier. The turbine output would be small and would not justify the cost of connecting to the grid. The site would, however, be a good one for a research and demonstration project. It would promote a clean, renewable energy source and attract companies developing the technology to the city. It would be a first step toward positioning the city as a tidal power pioneer.

Results

Environmental Economic Social
  • Developing clean, renewable sources of electricity reduces GHGs and our reliance on fossil fuels

  • A research and demonstration project would attract manufacturing companies to the city to develop and test turbines

  • A demonstration turbine would educate people about how tidal power works
  • A turbine at the pier would allow people to see it in action

Challenges

  • There are only few tidal turbines in operation worldwide, so the choices of technology were limited.
  • Winter storms delayed the measurements of tidal currents.
  • Wave analysis, initially not part of the study, had to be added when it was discovered that high waves occur regularly at the pier. Extreme waves can damage tidal turbines.

Lessons learned

  • It is a good idea to start looking for industrial partners early in the process.
  • Make sure you have qualified marine-energy scientists involved.
  • The feasibility study has proven an important resource in helping the city map out its next steps on tidal power.

Partners and Collaborators

Project Contact

Amber Zirnhelt
Sustainability Manager
City of Campbell River, BC
T. 250-286-5742

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