IELTS READING S47AT2

Tidal Power

Undersea turbines which produce electricity from the tides are set to become an important source of renewable energy for Britain. It is still too early to predict the extent of the impact they may have. but all the signs are that they will play a significant role in the future.

A. Operating on the same principle as wind turbines, the power in sea turbines comes from tidal currents which turn blades similar to ships’ propellers, but, unlike the wind, Q18 the tides are predictable and the power input is constant. The technology raises the prospect of Britain becoming self-sufficient in renewable energy and Q19 drastically reducing its carbon dioxide emissions, if tide, wind, and wave power are all developed. Britain would be able to Q20 close gas, coal and nuclear power plants and Q21 export renewable power to other parts of Europe. Q16 Unlike wind power which Britain originally developed and then abandoned for 20 years allowing the Dutch to make it a major industry, undersea turbines could become a big export earner to island nations such as Japan and New Zealand.

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