Methodology for estimating the French tidal current energy resource

Finally, we focus on the most promising site: the Raz Blanchard (Alderney Race) located in the Manche department (English Channel). The variability of the current intensities and directions are presented. Within this high tidal potential site, we define a zone (12 km2) wherein the current speeds are consistently high (exceeds 2.5 m/s for at least 40% of the year studied) and most often following the NNE/SSW axis.