A simplified method to estimate tidal current effects on the ocean wave power resource
Document Type
Article
Date of Original Version
10-1-2016
Abstract
Although ocean wave power can be significantly modified by tidal currents, resource assessments at wave energy sites generally ignore this effect, mainly due to the difficulties and high computational cost of developing coupled wave-tide models. Furthermore, validating the prediction of wave-current interaction effects in a coupled model is a challenging task, due to the paucity of observational data. Here, as an alternative to fully coupled numerical models, we present a simplified analytical method, based on linear wave theory, to estimate the influence of tidal currents on the wave power resource. The method estimates the resulting increase (or decrease) in wave height and wavelength for opposing (or following) currents, as well as quantifying the change in wave power. The method is validated by applying it to two energetic locations around the UK shelf - Pentland Firth and Bristol Channel - where wave/current interactions are significant, and for which field data are available. Results demonstrate a good accuracy of the simplified analytical approach, which can thus be used as an efficient tool for making rapid estimates of tidal effects on the wave power resource. Additionally, the method can be used to help better interpret numerical model results, as well as observational data.
Publication Title, e.g., Journal
Renewable Energy
Volume
96
Citation/Publisher Attribution
Hashemi, M. R., Stéphan T. Grilli, and Simon P. Neill. "A simplified method to estimate tidal current effects on the ocean wave power resource." Renewable Energy 96, (2016): 257-269. doi: 10.1016/j.renene.2016.04.073.