The President of South Korea Lee Myung-bak has officially started partial functioning of what is to become the world’s biggest tidal electricity plant in Seoul early this week. Mr Lee presented the project as part of his government’s trademark policy towards low-carbon and green growth aspects of development. The tidal power plant at the artificial sea-water Lake Shihwa, has been acclaimed by several experts for its contribution to the world’s fight against climate change and energy deficiency.
The Lake Shihwa tidal power plant partially started functioning in early August 2011. Six out of 10 of its generators have been in operation since then. The remaining generators are expected to begin operation by December. Once finished, the tidal power plant will be able to generate 254,000 kilowatts per day to become the world’s largest tidal power plant. On its way to turn the world’s biggest tidal plan, it will surpass the Rance Tidal Power Station in France, that produces 240,000 kilowatts a day, sources said. Power from the Seoul tidal power plant will be enough for a city with a population of 500,000.
The green aspect: According to the South Korean President, the tidal power plant is not only a sign of green growth, but also a part of the country’s landmark effort to stop the massive dependency on fossil fuels. World countries should take it as an example to find various alternatives for the depleting fossil fuels. The tidal plant will save more than 860,000 barrels of oil for South Korea. It will also bring down the carbon dioxide emission by 3200,000 tons a year, he added.
The tidal power plant in Korea well translates the urgency to develop more alternative energy options. As Mr Lee mentioned, more countries will take efforts to build similar tidal, solar or wind power plants to contribute to the huge demand for energy. In time of climate change and other natural calamities, the only way is to boost dependency on alternative sources of energy.
Solving future energy crisis: In short, it is high time the world countries undertake green growth as their motto. It will only help our environment and earth from the anticipated energy crisis and environmental imbalance. Under such a situation, South Korea’s efforts to cut down carbon dioxide emissions should be appreciated by all. It should be remembered that Korea is indeed one of top countries in emitting green house gases in the world. But their efforts may help them largely reduce its levels in future.
Via: Yonhap News
