When it comes to renewable energy discussions, one term that does not get a lot of play is tidal power. The new form of electricity in the minds of those residing in coastal communities, it is said to rival in power what solar and wind energy are proclaimed to offer those who would harness them.

There are some very serious problems with the use of tidal power, which are not always readily apparent or even consistently pointed out to those potentially affected by them.

Unfortunately, those who wonder if it is possible to see tidal power as the new form of electricity will learn rather quickly that while logically it is indeed a possibility.

The technology involved requires the utilization of turbines that are hazardous to marine life and even the occasional swimmer who might come too close for comfort.

While in decades past this would not have been considered a serious component of the debate, news organizations filming the death of marine mammals in particular when being inadvertently drawn into the turbine machinery have made tidal power one of the least attractive forms of renewable energy thus far.

Even if the marine life and overall wellbeing were not as big a consideration as it obviously must be, the fact that the placement of the turbines required for tidal energy to be generated requires an error free placement makes this a costly proposition.

One minute mistake in placement and the turbine is not only useless, but might actually impact the effectiveness of other turbines built nearby.