1. Marine Life: Tidal energy structures need to be designed in a way that does not harm marine life. For instance, they should avoid blocking critical habitats or migratory patterns of marine animals, as this could result in significant ecological problems.
2. Sedimentation: Tidal energy structures may interfere with the sediment transport, which could lead to erosion or deposition in unintended areas. This can have far-reaching effects on the ecosystem, especially in wetland areas.
3. Corrosion: Tidal energy structures are exposed to seawater, which can be highly corrosive due to its salt content. Therefore, it is crucial to use materials that can withstand the harsh marine environment.
4. Coastal Erosion: Tidal energy structures may affect the coastal erosion rate by blocking the natural flow of currents, waves and tides.
5. Storm Resilience: Given that tidal energy structures are usually located offshore, they must be robust enough to withstand harsh weather conditions, such as ocean storms, hurricanes and typhoons.
6. Navigation: Tidal energy structures may pose navigational hazards to ships and boats that operate close to the coast. It is essential to ensure that the structures are visible and marked appropriately to avoid collisions.
7. Noise and Vibration: Tidal energy devices could generate noise and vibration, which can negatively impact marine life, especially marine mammals. Structures should be designed to minimise any potential noise and vibration caused by their operation.
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