Tidal fences stretch across channels between islands or across straits between an island and the mainland. Turbines with vertical rotors are mounted on the fence and turned by water that passes through the channel. Tidal fences have less impact on the environment than tidal dams and are less expensive to install.

Tidal turbines look like wind turbines underwater. Tidal turbines are freestanding and can be located anywhere where there is a strong tide.