An overview of optimization methods for tidal instream and wind turbines farms

Abstract

Renewable energy resources have a positive environmental impact and are considered as a vital source of pollution free energy. Tidal instream and wind energy use similar techniques for generating electrical energy. Wind energy cost is still lower than tidal instream energy cost. However Tidal instream speed is more predictable than wind speed. Researchers are still working on tidal instream to reduce the energy extraction cost. Optimization is one of the best tools used to minimize the cost depending on some constraints. This paper is exploring different optimization tools for wind and tidal instream energies. Three different concepts are discussed using various tools for both types of energy. The fist concept is using arrays layout arrangements for the optimum performance. The second concept consider the turbine parameters for the minimum energy cost. The third concept depends on the coordination between several types of energy sources and the location of the units for the minimum cost.