As the tidal energy sector gears up for a significant expansion, a new study is shedding light on how lessons from the wind energy industry could help keep tidal turbines spinning efficiently. The research, led by Ben Thomas of the University of Edinburgh and published in the International Marine Energy Journal (also known as the Journal of Ocean and Coastal Engineering), evaluates blade repair techniques and their applicability to tidal turbines, offering valuable insights for project developers and operators.
With the UK’s tidal stream industry set to grow to nearly 100MW by 2028, thanks to recent Contracts for Difference awards, the need to minimize operational downtime is becoming increasingly important. “As tidal energy scales, similar attention to blade repair will likely be required to ensure that tidal turbine blades can be kept in service with minimal downtime,” Thomas notes.
The study draws parallels between wind and tidal turbine blades, which share similarities in composite material construction and design. By reviewing and contrasting the damage experienced by in-service composite wind and tidal turbine blades, Thomas establishes a baseline for transferring existing repair techniques between the industries.
However, tidal blades present unique challenges, such as thick sections, ply tapering, and large curvature. “The challenges surrounding the unique design features of tidal blades… are assessed to identify areas requiring novel repair approaches,” Thomas explains. This assessment enables an evaluation of the applicability and suitability of developed wind industry procedures, techniques, and tools for tidal blade repair.
The research serves as a primer for tidal stream project developers and operators to anticipate blade maintenance requirements and better understand the transferability of existing wind repair practices. By doing so, it aims to bolster future growth in the tidal stream industry.
As the energy sector continues to diversify, the insights from this study could significantly impact the commercial viability of tidal energy. By minimizing downtime and optimizing repair procedures, project developers can improve the overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness of tidal stream energy installations. This, in turn, could accelerate the deployment of tidal energy projects, contributing to the global push towards net-zero targets.
Thomas’s research underscores the importance of learning from established industries, like wind energy, to inform the development of emerging sectors, such as tidal energy. As the energy landscape evolves, such interdisciplinary approaches will be crucial in driving innovation and ensuring the sustainable growth of renewable energy sources.
In the words of Thomas, “This study acts as a primer to allow tidal stream project developers and operators to anticipate blade maintenance requirements and better understand the transferability of existing wind repair practices to bolster future growth in the tidal stream industry.” With this knowledge, the tidal energy sector can stride forward with greater confidence and competence, shaping a more sustainable energy future.