In-Stream Hydrokinetic Power: Review and Appraisal
Publication: Journal of Energy Engineering
Volume 141, Issue 3
Abstract
The objective of this paper is to provide a review of in-stream hydrokinetic power, which is defined as electric power generated by devices capturing the energy of naturally flowing water—stream, tidal, or open ocean flows—without impounding the water. North America has significant in-stream energy resources, and hydrokinetic electric power technologies to harness those resources have the potential to make a significant contribution to U.S. electricity needs by adding as much as from rivers alone to the present hydroelectric power generation capacity. Additionally, tidal and ocean current resources in the U.S. respectively contain and of extractable power. Among their attractive features, in-stream hydrokinetic operations do not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions or other air pollution and have less visual impact than wind turbines. Since these systems do no utilize dams the way traditional hydropower systems typically do, their impact on the environment will differ, and a small but growing number of studies support conclusions regarding those impacts. Potential environmental impacts include altered water quality, altered sediment deposition, altered habitats, direct impact on biota, and navigability of waterways.
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Acknowledgments
This paper was prepared by members of the Coasts, Oceans, Ports, and Rivers Institute’s In-Stream Hydrokinetic Subcommittee, Marine Renewable Energy Committee.
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Journal of Energy Engineering
Volume 141 • Issue 3 • September 2015
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© 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.
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Received: Apr 26, 2013
Accepted: Feb 28, 2014
Published online: May 14, 2014
Discussion open until: Oct 14, 2014
Published in print: Sep 1, 2015
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