Tidal Stream Resource Potential - Mean Power Density

Data depicts tidal stream mean power within U.S. waters. Tidal streams are high velocity sea currents created by periodic horizontal movement of the tides. Tidal stream energy is derived from the kinetic energy of the moving flow. A numerical model was used for simulating the tidal flows along the coast of the entire United States. Model results were calibrated with available measurements of tidal currents from NOAA tidal current stations. It should be noted that tidal currents and associated power per unit area can have significant spatial variability; therefore currents at one location are generally a poor indicator of conditions at another location, even nearby. Tidal power (energy) is measured in watts per meter squared (W/m2).