Abstract
Tidal resource assessment requires parameter studies involving many variables including, but not limited to, the layout of tidal devices within the tidal stream, amplitude, frequencies and phases of tidal constituents, coastal geometry and hydraulic resistance characteristics of sea bed and shelf. The local bathymetry, which may be very complicated and include islands and headlands, has a direct effect on the distribution and value of the tidal power resource. This paper will examine the effect of different channel layouts on tidal flows, with a view towards a better understanding of the effect of the site bathymetry on tidal resource assessment, the optimal location of the tidal array and its technical specifications.