Hydroelectric overview

[freebeard]

The Future of Hydroelectric Power: From Mountain Streams to Ocean Tides

A more down-to-Earth episode for Isaac Arthur -- he doesn't get to Outer Space until the last few minutes.

The most interesting new concept IMHO is Dynamic Tidal Power. More adaptable to extended, shallow coastlines than barrages. It seems like barrier islands would make good candidates. Two half-circular fish farms to create a venturi with turbines at it's throat.

Toward the end he hints at deep-sea power sources, but says it's speculative and doesn't mention OTEC

Ocean thermal energy conversion
Ocean thermal energy conversion is a renewable energy technology that harnesses the temperature difference between the warm surface waters of the ocean and the cold depths to run a heat engine to produce electricity. It is a unique form of clean energy generation that has the potential to provide a consistent and sustainable source of power. Although it has challenges to overcome, OTEC has the potential to provide a consistent and sustainable source of clean energy, particularly in tropical regions with access to deep ocean water. Wikipedia

[freebeard]

The most amazing renewable energy most people have never heard of

At 2:28 there is mention of a wave power experiment called PacWave West operating off the Oregon coast between Waldport and Newport. It looks like they are testing four different mechanisms. There is a visitor center.

IMHO, the easiest way to wave power would be to bore a bellmouth into a rocky headland and let each wave compress a slug of air into an L-shaped stand pipe. At the top, well away from most of the seawater a variable pitch turbine that reverses as the air rushes out and in.