Preliminary Assessment of Tidal Power Potential along the Andaman Islands, India

Marine renewables are alternate source of energies for possible electricity generation. Among the variety of sources, extraction of energy from tidal streams (or currents) is promising, due to its consistent and abundant availability. In India, the electricity needs of all the inhabited Andaman and Nicobar Islands are met through local fossil-fuel-based power generation. Among the total cumulative energy generation capacity of more than 100 MW, the majority reportedly sourced from the diesel-based generation. The fuel is generally transported from the mainland, not only escalates the cost of electricity production but also affects the existing environment. Other alternatives, such as hydro and solar-based electricity generation are however minimal. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with over 1500 km of coastline, have a significant amount of ocean energy resources that could be utilized to meet local power needs. It is understood from the earlier studies that the peak tide-induced current velocities often exceed 2 m/s at certain locations. The purpose of this study is to assess the tidal current potential around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands using a numerical model tool. The study aims to create easily understandable maps of the energy resources and identify optimal locations for extracting tidal power. A dedicated numerical model, developed in-house of IIT Bombay and validated with limited available datasets, is used to estimate the distribution of energy over space and time. In addition, based on the estimated power potential, the suitability of various existing tidal turbines is analyzed in detail and appropriate technology will be suggested for possible pilot-scale demonstrative implementation.