I wonder to what extent its output correlates with that of wind energy in the same region. Having a reasonably independent set of generating technologies might help with the intermittent generation of sun-based renewables.
The steeper the slope the higher the power output.
I think the real question on tidal generation is how costly is maintenance. The sea is just a very unforgiving environment. Salt water and marine life fouling everything are difficult engineering problems that just add more expense than I can imagine wind turbines having.
If they can make tidal work I guess we'll end up in a world where most of their profit comes from keeping the grid alive when it's a calm and there's no sun.
I guess this may mean these technologies aren't going to really take off until we stop using hydrocarbons to make up the shortfalls...
