The Gulf of California is formed by the peninsula of Baja California and the mainland of Mexico. At its head, the gulf is approximately 100 kilometres from the US border.
The Upper Gulf is less than 30 metres deep in substantial areas, with a tidal range of 6-8 metres. Based on an initial study of bathymetrics and hydrology undertaken in 2015 in cooperation with the CISESE research institute at Ensenada, three sites with potential for tidal lagoon development have been identified in the Gulf of California.
Initial discussions with governmental authorities and consumers both sides of the border indicate the opportunity to export power to the US and that would be the likely focus for any development of tidal resources in the Gulf.
The data collected in this pre-feasibility stage indicates that there is both the resource and potential market to develop tidal lagoon power in Baja California. A recent social study commissioned through the University of Cardiff has indicated initial support for the concept among the local community. Further progress of the tidal lagoon opportunity in Mexico will now be discussed with state government of Baja California.