Harnessing Lunar Energy: The Tidal Kite Initiative Tackles Renewable Energy Challenges
Since its inception in 1907, SKF has remained at the forefront of innovation in bearings, seals, lubrication systems, condition monitoring solutions, and services designed to mitigate friction. In a groundbreaking collaboration with Minesto—a leader in marine energy—the company is now launching a unique space program to harness the moon's energy through tidal power without ever leaving our planet.
The Faroe Islands are stepping into the spotlight with one of the world's most ambitious energy transition programs, aiming for 100% renewable energy by 2030. The tidal kite program is an integral part of this movement, addressing the urgent global need for renewable energy solutions. Unlike traditional spacecraft, these tidal kites will dive down into the ocean depths, deploying turbines to capture energy from the daily ebb and flow of tides powered by the moon's gravitational pull.
The initiative features Luna, a tidal kite developed by Minesto that operates invisibly and silently underwater. After its successful launch, Luna can generate power unaffected by weather conditions, converting tidal currents into a stable energy source. Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stating, "For us as a technology development company working with a global industrial player like SKF is both an educational experience and an inspiration."
With great optimism, Minesto estimates there are at least 3,000 regions akin to the Faroe Islands that could benefit from this tidal energy program. If all these areas join the initiative, it could lead to the replacement of all coal power capacity under development worldwide. The energy kite, Luna, boasts a nominal power output of 12 MW, sufficient to supply the electricity needs of 200 villas annually. Future plans include developing additional tidal energy facilities with a capacity of 200 MW, which could meet 40% of the anticipated electricity demands by 2030 for the small island nation of 50,000 residents and 70,000 sheep.
This remarkable project is a joint effort with the local utility company, Sev. CEO Hákun Djurhuus emphasized the collective vision: "Our aim is to achieve a 100% renewable electricity production by 2030, and we believe tidal power could be a vital part of this journey.”
The collaboration between SKF and Minesto is extensive, with SKF providing specialized bearing and sealing systems for the kites’ rudders and elevators. Their advanced software assesses the lifecycle of these bearings and models CO2 emission estimates, allowing various solutions to be evaluated from both technical and sustainability perspectives. "Collaboration across industries is essential for progress. Together with Minesto, we demonstrate how technology and innovation can drive the transition to renewable energy," stated Annika Ölme, technical director of the SKF Group.
By branding this groundbreaking effort as a space program that remains anchored to Earth, the partners underscore the importance of utilizing existing terrestrial resources to harness lunar energy through tidal forces, presenting a promising vision for the future.
The International Energy Agency reports that approximately 80% of the world’s power is currently derived from fossil fuels. By 2050, marine energy could play a crucial role in the global energy landscape. It is local, renewable, and predictable, making tidal energy an ideal complement to established renewable sources like wind and solar. Ocean Energy Europe has projected that marine energy could supply 10% of Europe’s electricity while creating 400,000 skilled jobs by the middle of the century.
This innovative approach to energy harnessing could pave the way for a significant shift toward sustainability, potentially reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to a cleaner, greener future.
Related Sources: