A tidal stream generator has a rated capacity of 2.5 MW2.5\text{ MW}2.5 MW. Over a full calendar year of 365 days365\text{ days}365 days, it produces a total electrical output of 4.9275×103 MWh4.9275 \times 10^{3}\text{ MWh}4.9275×103 MWh.
Calculate the capacity factor of this energy resource, and identify the primary reason why this value is significantly less than 100%.
18.75%18.75\%18.75%; because tidal currents are intermittent and vary with the daily and monthly tidal cycle.
22.50%22.50\%22.50%; because tidal currents are intermittent and vary with the daily and monthly tidal cycle.
18.75%18.75\%18.75%; because of thermodynamic heat losses during the conversion of kinetic energy to electricity.
22.50%22.50\%22.50%; because of thermodynamic heat losses during the conversion of kinetic energy to electricity.
