Harnessing Lunar Energy: The Innovative Tidal Kite Project in the Faroe Islands
Since 1907, SKF has been at the forefront of manufacturing innovative engineering solutions, including bearings, seals, lubrication systems, and condition monitoring services aimed at reducing friction. In a groundbreaking collaboration with Minesto, a pioneer in marine energy, SKF is launching a unique 'space program' designed not to explore beyond our planet but to make full use of the natural energy providers right here on Earth: the tides influenced by the moon.
The Faroe Islands, known for their ambitious aim of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2030, are now at the center of this innovative project. The tidal kite, named Luna, will harness the energy from tidal currents created by the gravitational pull of the moon. This underwater kite operates silently and invisibly, offering a sustainable energy source regardless of weather conditions.
Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto, expressed the excitement of collaborating with a global industrial player like SKF, which has provided crucial engineering support for the project. With an expected capacity of 12 MW, the Luna kite can generate enough power to supply electricity to around 200 homes for a year. Minesto's next ambitious target is to deploy a tidal energy facility with a capacity of 200 MW, which could potentially fulfill 40% of the projected electricity needs for the island nation by 2030.
Cooperation is vital in this endeavor. The local utility company, Sev, is collaborating closely with Minesto to facilitate the integration of tidal energy into the region’s energy mix. Hákun Djurhuus, CEO of Sev, emphasized the importance of tidal power in achieving their renewable energy goals.
SKF's engineering contributions include designing advanced bearing and sealing systems for the kites’ rudders and elevators, along with software that calculates bearing lifespan and carbon dioxide emissions. This dual focus allows for evaluating solutions from both technical and sustainability perspectives, showcasing the path toward a greener future.
The project takes on a metaphorical significance by branding itself as a 'space program that never leaves Earth.' This phrase captures the essence of exploring and unlocking energy resources inherent to our planet while pushing the boundaries of technological innovation. By emphasizing collaboration across industries, the partnership demonstrates how inventive technologies can drive the transition towards renewable energy.
The challenge of our time has never been more apparent, with fossil fuels still providing 80% of global electricity according to the International Energy Agency. However, the future shines bright with potential; ocean energy could contribute significantly to the energy mix by 2050, making tidal energy a reliable partner to more established renewables such as wind and solar.
With estimates suggesting that ocean energy could provide up to 10% of Europe’s electricity and create approximately 400,000 qualified jobs by 2050, the Faroe Islands' tidal kite initiative is paving the way for a sustainable future. By harnessing the strength of our oceans and the power of the moon, we are witnessing an inspiring shift toward a renewable energy paradigm that is both locally anchored and globally significant.
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