Harnessing Tidal Energy: The Groundbreaking Collaboration Between SKF and Minesto
In an ambitious leap towards sustainability, SKF, a pioneer in innovative engineering solutions, has teamed up with Minesto, a leading developer in marine energy, to launch a groundbreaking project that takes the concept of a space program and turns it on its head. Set to utilize the moon’s energy by tapping into tidal dynamics, this initiative, although labelled as a space program, will remain firmly earthbound, making use of resources that are already available on our planet.
Since its inception in 1907, SKF has continually pushed the boundaries of technology, specializing in bearings, seals, lubrication systems, and cutting-edge condition monitoring solutions designed to minimize friction. Now, through this collaborative venture with Minesto, they aim to address the pressing need for renewable energy. The Faroe Islands, known for their rich natural resources and ambitious goal to achieve 100% renewable energy by the year 2030, are set to serve as the testing ground for this unique project.
At the heart of this initiative is the Luna tidal kite, a remarkable innovation developed by Minesto, supported by SKF's expertise. The tidal kite flies silently underwater, drawing energy from the daily ebb and flow of tidal currents generated by the moon’s gravitational pull. This new form of energy generation has the potential to provide a consistent and renewable power source, unaffected by weather variations.
Martin Edlund, the CEO of Minesto, remarked on the fruitful collaboration with SKF, calling it both an educational experience and a source of inspiration. If the ambitious efforts of the Faroe Islands are replicated across similar coastal regions worldwide — which Edlund estimates could number around 3,000 — the potential for tidal energy could replace a significant amount of coal capacity currently in development across the globe.
The Luna tidal kite boasts a nominal output of 12 MW, sufficient to power 200 villas for an entire year. Looking ahead, Minesto plans to create a new tidal energy facility with a capacity of 200 MW, potentially fulfilling 40% of the electricity demand expected by 2030 for the Faroe Islands, a remote community comprising about 50,000 residents and 70,000 sheep. Hákun Djurhuus, CEO of the local power company Sev, stated, "Our vision is to achieve 100 percent renewable electricity production by 2030, and we believe tidal power could prove to be an important part of this journey."
Collaboration is at the core of this project. SKF has played a significant role in designing the necessary bearing and sealing systems integral to the kite’s rudders and elevators. Their software also provides crucial data on bearing lifespan and carbon dioxide emissions, allowing for a comparative analysis of different energy solutions not only from a technical standpoint but also in terms of sustainability. Annika Ölme, technology director for the SKF Group, emphasizes that such cross-industry collaborations are vital to advancing progress in renewable technology.
By referring to this initiative as a space program that never leaves Earth, SKF and Minesto aim to highlight how power can be derived from the moon's energy to create renewable energy through tidal forces. This innovative approach is particularly timely, given that according to the International Energy Agency, around 80% of the world’s electricity is currently generated from fossil fuels, underscoring the importance of transitioning towards sustainable practices.
Marine and tidal energy hold promise for the future. The International Energy Agency asserts that by 2050, marine energy could comprise a substantial part of the global energy portfolio. As Ocean Energy Europe forecasts, marine energy may not only contribute about 10% of Europe’s electricity but could also create approximately 400,000 qualified jobs.
With projects like the collaboration between SKF and Minesto, the vision for a greener, more sustainable future powered by renewable energy sources is coming closer to reality. This project is a testament to how innovative ideas and collaborative effort can pave the way toward achieving substantial advancements in energy transformation, ensuring a sustainable planet for generations to come.
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