Japanese researchers believe that deep ocean currents could provide a new source of clean energy for the world. In 2022, they completed a demonstration of a large prototype turbine generator that had spent three years submerged off the coast of Japan, harnessing the consistent power of the deep ocean. Since then, new developments in the field have begun to advance rapidly. Read more below to find out how this incredibly innovative turbine works.
Harnessing Deep Ocean Currents
The same strategy for harnessing wind power can be utilized to generate electricity from water currents. This involves placing enormous turbines in its path and using generators to convert the spinning blades’ mechanical energy into power. While systems have previously been developed that use the tidal currents of the ocean, these were typically located near the surface of the water and were generally inconsistent in their energy output. While deep ocean currents are slower, they are also far steadier than those close to the surface.
The Kuroshio Current
One example of this is the Kuroshio current which occurs off the eastern coast of Japan. It is among the strongest deep ocean currents in the world, yet only flows at around half the rate as other tidal systems. In addition to this, there is also the great costs involved in constructing and maintaining these kinds of systems. It is due to reasons such as these that deep ocean current research has up to now fallen behind wind and solar energy. The biggest issue they faced was finding a way to produce a turbine that could generate power efficiently out of relatively weak currents.
Proving the Turbine Idea Could Work
In 2011 NEDO and IHI corporation set out to demonstrate that these deep currents could effectively be used as a viable energy source. They then developed a system named Kairyu – a device resembling an airplane with a cylindrical pod attached. On both sides of the pod were turbines. The turbine’s blades would be rotated by the ocean currents, thereby generating electricity. A cable along the seabed would then transmit the power to Japan’s main islands. The demonstration ended in 2022, showing that the system was capable of producing 100 kilowatts of stable power.
The 2021 Proteus Pilot
In 2021, a trial project called Proteus was launched in the Naru Strait and made use of a 500 kW tidal turbine. This project confirmed the viability of the technology, demonstrating an incredible 97% turbine availability. After this success, Proteus then teamed up with Kyuden Mirai Energy to upgrade the device to the AR1 100 installation. Using the turbine technology’s modular architecture, they managed to upgrade the turbine from 500kW to 1.1 MW. They managed to increase the turbine’s output by integrating advanced pitch and yaw systems.
The AR1 100 Tidal Turbine
This innovative turbine employs a three-bladed rotor and each blade can be adjusted to optimize performance in real time. The captured energy is then transferred via a drivetrain to a generator for the production of electricity. The integrated yaw mechanism allows the turbine to rotate and thus maintain its alignment with the ever-changing flow of the tides. The generated electricity is then transmitted to an onshore substation via a subsea cable. From there it is connected to the local power grid, seamlessly integrating into existing distribution networks.
The Role of Proteus on the Global Energy Stage
Established in 2022, Proteus focuses on maritime energy technology and offshore services. The company has already installed tidal turbines in six countries now, producing more than 20 GWh of electricity! Proteus’ reach now extends beyond Japan and the United Kingdom. The company is currently working with clients in France, Scotland, and the United States. It helps them achieve their renewable energy targets, contributing to a more sustainable and cleaner future for all.
The Future of Deep Ocean Tidal Turbine Technology
The success of projects such as Kairyu and Proteus demonstrates the vast potential of deep ocean currents as a dependable energy source. While obstacles exist, continuing advancements in tidal turbine technology make this approach feasible. As Proteus expands its worldwide reach, incorporating ocean current energy into traditional power systems could potentially have an important role in reducing dependency on fossil fuels. With continuing improvements in efficiency and scalability, these tidal turbines may soon play a big role in the world’s clean energy mix.
Read More: New Japanese Technology Can Turn Sunlight and Water Into Hydrogen Fuel