Harnessing Lunar Energy: A Revolutionary Tidal Kite Initiative in the Faroe Islands
Since its establishment in 1907, SKF has been a leader in developing cutting-edge bearings, seals, lubrication systems, condition monitoring solutions, and services aimed at reducing friction across various industries. In an innovative collaboration with Minesto, a pioneering company in ocean energy, SKF is embarking on a unique ‘space program’ designed not to break free from Earth’s atmosphere but to exploit the resources available on our planet.
This ambitious project has taken root in the Faroe Islands, a place known for its dedication to a substantial energy transition, aiming for 100% renewable energy by 2030. The program centers around the development of an ‘Invisible and Silent Tidal Kite’ that addresses the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions. Unlike traditional spacecraft that soar into the heavens, this initiative dives beneath the ocean's surface, where turbines will capitalize on the energy generated by tidal currents, driven by the moon's gravitational pull.
The tidal kite, aptly named Luna, represents a significant leap forward in renewable energy technology. Once successfully deployed in the sea, Luna glides silently and invisibly, harnessing energy from water currents regardless of weather conditions. Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto, expressed optimism about the potential this technology holds, estimating that there are potentially 3,000 locations worldwide with conditions similar to the Faroe Islands that could benefit from this tidal energy program. If these places were to commit to the initiative, lunar energy could feasibly replace all coal power currently being developed globally.
With a nominal output of 12 MW, the energy kite Luna can supply electricity to 200 villas for an entire year. Minesto is setting its sights on an even larger tidal energy facility that could generate 200 MW, which could satisfy up to 40% of the expected electricity requirements for the Faroe Islands by the target year of 2030. For this small island nation, home to just around 50,000 people and 70,000 sheep, the transition to green electricity is not just a dream—it is a tangible goal set against the backdrop of global warming and climate change.
A vital aspect of this initiative is the strong collaboration between Minesto and the local electricity provider, Sev. Hákun Djurhuus, CEO of Sev, remarked on the importance of achieving 100% renewable electricity production by 2030. He emphasized that tidal energy could play a pivotal role in their journey toward this ambitious target.
SKF's extensive engineering expertise has been instrumental in the design of bearing and sealing systems for the kites’ rudders and elevators. Their advanced software also provides crucial data on the expected lifespan of these components, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of technology options not only from a technical standpoint but also from a sustainability perspective. Annika Ölme, Chief Technology Officer of SKF Group, highlighted that collaboration across different industries is essential for spurring progress in renewable energy.
By framing this endeavor as a space project that remains firmly attached to Earth, the partners involved aim to emphasize the significance of utilizing our planet's resources responsibly to generate energy sustainably through tidal forces.
Statistics from the International Energy Agency reveal that a staggering 80% of global electricity is still derived from fossil fuels. However, projections indicate that by the year 2050, ocean energy could account for a significant portion of the energy supply mix due to its local, renewable nature, and predictability—making it an ideal complement to established renewable sources such as wind and solar.
The potential for ocean energy is immense; Ocean Energy Europe suggests it could supply around 10% of Europe's electricity needs and create approximately 400,000 qualified jobs by 2050. This makes Minesto’s tidal kite project not only a beacon of hope for renewable energy in the Faroe Islands but also a pioneering effort with far-reaching implications globally.
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