Analysis of a Tidal Power Plant in the Estuary of Bacanga in Brazil Taking Into Account the Current Conditions and Constraints

There have been an increasing number of government policies and research activities aimed at the exploitation of renewable energy resources to diversify power supply and meet the growing demand for electricity. In the context of Brazil, an example of this is tidal energy, which has a significant potential and is mainly concentrated on the coast of the States of Maranhão, Pará, and Amapá. However, only a few studies have been conducted to evaluate and take advantage of this energy source. One of the works in progress involves the study of a tidal power plant installation at the dam situated at Bacanga. This paper outlines and analyzes the configuration management of a tidal power plant, which is suited to the current physical conditions of the dam and complies with operational and physical constraints. In specific terms, the study takes account the reservoir operating restrictions and available physical space for installing turbines. A recent assessment has been carried out that involves bathymetry, high-resolution photos, and 3-D scanning to evaluate the potential value of the reservoir. This allowed a complete reservoir characterization and the designing of its digital model. Annual studies of optimal operation are reported, as well as factors, such as the technical and economic benefits and drawbacks of the plant.