New Generation Tidal Power Plant in Zhejiang, China
China is making significant progress in marine energy, especially tidal energy. In Zhejiang Province, engineers have developed two major projects: an intelligent tidal power plant and the world’s first tidal current station using homegrown megawatt-scale generators.
The Jiangxia Tidal Power Station in Wenling City is leading this innovation. Technicians are currently installing the final set of advanced control hardware across six generators, five sluices, and other shared systems. This upgrade is a key step in building a self-decision-making system.
Once the hardware is in place, work will begin on the software platform and testing phase.
Smarter Control Systems for Tidal Energy
Xiang Zhili, a technician at the station, explained that the new hardware collects detailed data from the generators. More importantly, it contains core programmes that let the system carry out tasks automatically based on its own decisions.
This smart system will manage the start-up, shutdown, and performance settings of the plant, reducing the chance of human error. The development marks a major milestone in China’s journey to create intelligent tidal energy solutions.
Stable Power from the Sea in Zhoushan, China
Meanwhile, in the waters off Zhoushan, the LHD Tidal Current Power Station has been feeding electricity into the grid for eight years. It uses a unique homebuilt generator called “Endeavor”, the first to deliver steady megawatt-scale power output.
The turbine, which combines platform and modular features, handles complex challenges like offshore setup, routine operation, garbage removal, and power delivery. This makes it more reliable and efficient.
Lin Dong, director of the station’s research centre, highlighted its ease of use. Unlike foreign models, this system does not need human divers for underwater tasks. Its modular design allows for easier management and future expansion.
Future Plans for Large-Scale Generation
Zhejiang is now focused on creating tidal generators with capacities of up to 100 megawatts. The goal is to harness more energy from sea currents and support the growth of related industries and businesses.
These efforts underline China’s commitment to cleaner energy and smart technology in marine environments.
with inputs from Reuters
