Abstract
Although tidal stream energy is highly predictable, the distribution of the resource varies over small spatial scales and over tidal-to-decadal time scales, requiring detailed models and accurate analysis techniques. The present study investigates the spatial and temporal variability of the tidal stream energy resource around France, using a tidal current harmonic database. The 250 m resolution tidal database covers western Brittany and the western English Channel, two regions that have strong potential for tidal array development. As well as generating a refined resource assessment for the region, a series of metrics are considered to assess resource variability, both spatially and temporally. Particular attention is dedicated to variability over spring-neap time scales (resulting from M2 and S2 compound tides) and current asymmetry (governed by M2 and M4 velocities). A clear contrast in the nature of the resource is found between sites located off the Cotentin Peninsula, which exhibit low spring-neap variability and tidal asymmetry, leading to a more continuous and therefore attractive energy conversion, and sites in western Brittany, with greater variabilities over semi-diurnal and fortnightly time scales.