This project aims to develop an optimisation model which will help to establish the best sites for the installation of plants that will generate electricity from tidal currents in Brazil.

The sites will be selected on the basis of:
o the amount of energy that can be extracted from the site
o the proximity of the site to a network of electric power generation already in operation
o the effect of the plant on ships in the area where the site is located
o the effect of the plant on the ecosystem in the region where the site is located

Since there is an inherent conflict between these criteria the model will focus on providing an optimised compromise. The Amazon and Maranhão regions have already been identified as ideal sites for capturing tidal energy.

The innovation element of this project lies in its promotion of tidal energy which is widely regarded as a good source of renewable energy. It is though that the wide availability of this type of energy will be fundamental to the political, economic and social development of these regions. The project will see the creation of 25 plants producing 5 megawatts each.

The project will provide jobs for local people and potentially an entirely new infrastructure for the areas where it is based. In the short term the project can be expanded by exporting the pilot technology to other sites whilst long term positive results could lead to greater expansion and commercialisation.

About the award winner:
COPPE/UFRJ is the engineering institute of the Rio de Janeiro Federal University founded in 1963 by Alberto Luiz Coimbra. The COPPETEC Foundation, a non-profit organization aimed at supporting the implementation of technological development projects, research and education, will act as interface between business and institutions.