Tidal-energy farms

Tidal-energy farms

Tidal farms are often promoted as important and useful practical tools for reducing global carbon emissions. Their predictable output and long operational service lives mean supporters regard the technology as environmentally (17) ________. Like any technology, however, tidal power also has a clear (18) ________ to consider. Nearby residents sometimes report disturbance from construction noise and even occasional (19) ________ nights at home. A single turbine may seem unobtrusive in a broad estuary, but a large commercial array can dramatically change the visual landscape. Supporters generally argue that such drawbacks nevertheless pale into (20) ________ beside wider climate benefits. Electricity storage remains costly in some settings, so tidal generation works best within a geographically diversified and carefully managed modern regional grid. Turbines produce power only when regular tidal currents flow, not (21) ________ when demand peaks; the (22) ________ from manufacturing yards and vessels must also be counted. (23) ________, extracting metals can cause severe environmental damage if regulation is weak or waste disposal becomes potentially (24) ________.