Optimal Operation of a Tidal Lagoon as a Flexible Source of Electricity

TL;DR

This paper develops an optimal operation model for tidal lagoons to enhance revenue in electricity markets by leveraging their controllable power generation, demonstrated through a Swansea Bay case study.

Contribution

It introduces a novel optimization framework for tidal lagoon operation, enabling better market participation and revenue maximization.

Findings

Tidal lagoons can increase revenue by optimizing operation schedules.

Flexible operation reduces total electricity generation but improves market revenue.

Case study shows practical benefits for Swansea Bay tidal lagoon.

Abstract

As the demand for electricity and the need for power systems flexibility grow, it is crucial to exploit more reliable and clean sources of energy to produce electricity when needed most. Tidal lagoons generate renewable electricity by creating an artificial head difference between water levels on the seaside, driven by tides, and water levels inside the basin, controlled by flow through the structure. Depending on the level of seawater, power generation from a tidal lagoon can be controlled, i.e. shifting power generation in time. This paper aims to investigate the operation of a tidal lagoon in response to fluctuating electricity prices. By developing an optimal operation model of a tidal lagoon, its schedule in the day-ahead wholesale electricity market was optimized to achieve maximum revenue. The Swansea Bay tidal lagoon was used as a case study. It was demonstrated that by exploiting the flexibility offered by the tidal lagoon, it can achieve a higher revenue in the day-ahead market, although their total electricity generation is reduced.