Harnessing the Moon's Energy: SKF and Minesto's Innovative Tidal Kite Project
Since 1907, SKF has been at the forefront of manufacturing innovative bearings, seals, lubrication systems, and condition monitoring solutions to reduce friction. Now, in collaboration with Minesto, a prominent marine energy developer, SKF is launching an unprecedented space program aimed at harnessing the power of the moon through tidal forces. Interestingly, this space initiative does not intend to venture into outer space but instead seeks to utilize the resources available right here on Earth.
Located in the Faroe Islands, a region with an ambitious energy transition plan targeting 100% renewable energy by 2030, this space program introduces an innovative concept: the 'Invisible and Silent Tidal Kite.' As the demand for renewable energy rises, this project showcases a novel solution to harness tidal energy effectively.
The spacecraft, known as Luna, dives underwater to collect energy, utilizing the daily tidal currents driven by the moon's gravitational pull. With the successful deployment of the tidal kite at sea, Luna operates silently and invisibly, gathering energy from the currents regardless of weather conditions. Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "For us as a technology development company working with a global industrial company like SKF is both an educational experience and an inspiration. We believe there are at least 3,000 more Faroe Islands out there that qualify for our space program; if they all join, lunar energy can replace all coal power capacity currently being developed globally."
The energy produced by the Luna kite is significant; with a nominal power of 12 MW, it can supply electricity to around 200 villas for a year. Minesto aims to expand further with a new tidal energy facility projected to have a capacity of 200 MW, potentially meeting 40% of the expected electricity demand by 2030. This initiative will provide the small but ambitious island nation, with a population of 50,000 and 70,000 sheep, an opportunity to transition towards greener electricity.
Collaboration is vital in this endeavor. The local electricity company, Sev, plays an essential role in unlocking tidal power. Hákun Djurhuus, CEO of Sev, emphasized the shared vision, stating, "Our vision is to achieve 100 percent renewable electricity production by 2030, and we believe tidal power can prove to be an important part of this journey."
SKF's contributions are crucial; they have designed the bearing and sealing systems for the kites' rudders and elevators, while their software system estimates the lifespan of bearings and CO2 emissions. This enables a comprehensive comparison of solutions not only from a technical standpoint but also in terms of sustainability. Annika Ölme, technology director for the SKF Group, highlighted that collaboration across industries is essential for progress. Together with Minesto, they exemplify how technology and innovation can catalyze the transition to renewable energy.
By framing this project as a space program that never leaves Earth, the partners aim to accentuate the importance of utilizing existing resources on our planet. The International Energy Agency reports that about 80% of the global electricity currently comes from fossil fuels. However, by 2050, ocean energy could emerge as a vital component of the energy mix. The predictability of tidal power makes it an excellent complement to more established renewables like wind and solar. According to Ocean Energy Europe, ocean energy could potentially supply 10% of Europe’s electricity and generate 400,000 qualified jobs by 2050.
In this groundbreaking collaboration, SKF and Minesto are not only pushing the envelope of innovative renewable energy solutions but are also setting a precedent for how we can look to the natural world for sustainable energy alternatives. This project serves as an inspiring model for subsequent initiatives, proving that creative engineering and collaboration can bring us closer to a more sustainable future.
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