Abstract
Two numerical models developed by the Acadia Tidal Energy Institute are described. The models simulate the tidal flow in the Bay of Fundy, and in particular the Minas Passage. The models have different grid resolution, one suitable for site assessment and one suitable for resource assessment. The models are validated against numerous ADCP measurements. A parameterization of bottom roughness based on the RMS of high-resolution bathymetry is shown to increase the model accuracy inside the region where the parameterization is used, but decrease accuracy outside it. The model simulations are used to map the power density of the passage, illustrating a strong ebb-flood asymmetry and large variations on small spatial scales. Maps of horizontal vorticity indicate regions susceptible to turbulence from both large and small bathymetric features. Finally, idealized turbine power curves are used to illustrate how the spatial and temporal variations favour different turbine designs and deployment depths.