Tidal Energy Integration Using Pumped Storage

This paper shows how the value of tidal energy is enhanced when it is integrated into an electrical system using a pumped-storage scheme. An optimum operations policy for the combined tidal and pumped-storage schemes has been determined by a dynamic programming method. This objective has been demonstrated for a tidal energy scheme in the Minas Basin, Bay of Fundy, and a pumped-storage scheme on the St. John River, Maine–known as the Dickey-Lincoln School Lakes Project. It was assumed that the energy produced by both stations would be sold in a joint Maritime Provinces/New England electricity supply system. The paper concludes that optimally integrating the tidal energy in the way described leads to an increase in the value of the tidal energy to the system of 9% in an average water year.