Wave/ Tidal power debate ..need solid defense!!!?

Question

My chemistry class is having a huge debate on the different types of power generation...which is the best most sustainable, enviro friendly etc... tommorow i present on my topic--wave/ tidal power..and basically i get a minute or two to present my case and then the class bombards me with questions trying to point out flaws..its RUTHLESS! ...i need a rock solid defense and arguments to dispute the weak points of my proposal---i need to make the disadvantages look good, even!... i'd be grateful for your two cents worth on the subject, and possibly some debate tips :) thanks!

Answer 1

Tidal power is still unproven, but it has lots of theoretical advantages to other power sources:

1. It is a clean, renewable source of power that does not harm our environment with emissions.
2. It is a PREDICTABLE source of power. This is the most important point. Wind and sun power are great, but unpredicatable because wind and sun come and go. But the tide is always changing, and waves are always created.
3. Tidal power is more efficient in creating energy than solar or coal fired plants.

Potential downsides:
1. People live and play around water, and tidal power stations could take over areas near beaches, etc.
2. Not sure whether it will harm sea life yet

Good luck!

Answer 2

A key downside to wave/tidal power is the massive machinery that must be built in the ocean. This disrupts ecosystems and is a maintenance nightmare.

I am a big fan of Bush's plan, developing Geothermal energy wells to produce hydrogen and electricity. This is much lower maintenance, much smaller footprint on the ecosystem and is a consistent energy source that will last for millions of years. Bush has already made considerable progress in developing the infrastructure and the US now has fleets of hydrogen vehicles running around.

Answer 3

I would be one of those critics. It has been done in some limited cases, and it has not been done in a widespread way for a reason. The reason is that it doesn't work that well. And of course the environmental disturbance of the coastal ecosystem is large.