As the quest for renewable energy intensifies, hydrokinetic turbines emerge as a game-changing technology with minimal environmental disruption. Unlike traditional hydropower systems that require high dams, often affecting ecosystems and displacing communities, hydrokinetic turbines operate with zero head. They harness the energy of moving water in rivers, estuaries, and coastal areas to produce power, reducing both social and environmental costs. This study, supported by the Department of Energy's ARPA-E program, focuses on the deployment of horizontal-axis hydrokinetic turbines in the lower Mississippi region, specifically in Baton Rouge, LA. We employ a high-definition Flow-3D Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model for a comprehensive environmental assessment. The model allows us to analyze intricate flow fields, optimizing turbine placement to minimize environmental interference. Moreover, it enables the simulation of animal movements within the waterways, assessing the risk of collision and thus ensuring safer aquatic habitats. Additionally, we examine the impact of the deployment on sediment transport, noise, and electromagnetic field (EMF), evaluating their potential impacts on both aquatic life and the broader environment. The model also facilitates the evaluation of other relevant environmental aspects, offering an integrative understanding of hydrokinetic technology's environmental footprint.
