Harnessing Lunar Energy: The Innovative Collaboration between SKF and Minesto
Since 1907, SKF has been at the forefront of manufacturing innovative solutions in bearings, seals, lubrication systems, and condition monitoring technologies aimed at reducing friction. In a groundbreaking move, SKF has joined forces with Minesto, a leader in ocean energy development, to launch a unique 'space program' dedicated to harnessing the energy of the moon through tidal power. This initiative focuses on utilizing Earth's existing resources rather than venturing beyond our planet.
Located in one of the world's most ambitious energy transition programs, the Faroe Islands, this collaborative project aims to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030. At the core of this endeavor is the 'tidal kite,' an innovative device developed by Minesto with assistance from SKF. This technology exploits the predictable forces of tides, driven by lunar gravitational pull, to generate renewable energy effectively and silently beneath the ocean's surface.
The tidal kite, named Luna, has a capacity of 12 MW, which is sufficient to supply electricity to approximately 200 villas for an entire year. Looking ahead, Minesto aims to launch a new tidal energy facility with an impressive capacity of 200 MW, which could fulfill 40% of the expected electricity demands of the Faroe Islands by the year 2030. With a small population of around 50,000 and a sheep population of 70,000, the project promises to deliver sustainable and green energy solutions to the remote island nation while collaborating with local utility Sev.
Hákun Djurhuus, CEO of Sev, emphasizes the importance of tidal power in achieving the collective vision of fully renewable electricity production by 2030. He believes that through this initiative, the Faroe Islands can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Collaboration is indeed a key facet of this project. SKF has intricately designed the bearing and sealing mechanisms for Luna’s operational systems, and their software helps calculate bearing lifespan and estimate CO2 emissions. This approach allows for a comprehensive comparison of technical solutions against sustainability benchmarks.
Annika Ölme, technical director of the SKF Group, underscores the potential of industry collaboration to lead the charge in renewable energy transition. Through this partnership, SKF and Minesto are illustrating how technological innovation can drive significant change in energy consumption patterns.
Their unique portrayal of the initiative as a space program that remains Earth-bound serves to illuminate the emphasis on leveraging resources already available on our planet, namely the tidal forces generated by the moon's energy.
As the International Energy Agency indicates, fossil fuels currently supply approximately 80% of the world's electricity. However, experts predict that by 2050, ocean energy could play a pivotal role in our energy mix, potentially accounting for 10% of Europe's electricity generation while also creating up to 400,000 qualified jobs in the sector.
By embracing ocean energy as an integral component of renewable sources, particularly in tandem with established technologies like wind and solar, there's a promising outlook for a healthier and more sustainable energy future. This partnership between SKF and Minesto not only champions renewable energy but also sets a precedent for cooperative efforts geared towards mitigating climate change and reducing dependence on non-renewable sources.
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