Harnessing Tidal Power: A Unique Space Program Aimed at Renewable Energy
Since 1907, SKF has been at the forefront of manufacturing innovative solutions like bearings, seals, lubrication systems, and condition monitoring systems aimed at reducing friction. In a groundbreaking move towards renewable energy, SKF has partnered with Minesto, a leading developer in ocean energy, to launch a unique program that taps into the power of the moon—specifically, its influence on tides. This initiative, intriguingly dubbed a space program, surprisingly remains firmly rooted on Earth, focusing on harnessing local resources.
The Faroe Islands have declared their ambition to achieve 100% renewable energy by the year 2030, and this project plays a crucial role in that vision. The space project aims to address our increasing demand for renewable energy. Unlike traditional spacecraft, the innovation here is a tidal kite named Luna, designed to harvest energy from tidal currents driven by the moon’s gravitational pull.
Luna operates invisibly and silently underwater, generating energy from daily water movements irrespective of weather conditions. Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto, remarks on the collaboration with SKF, calling it an educational experience and a source of inspiration. He believes this partnership could unlock the full potential of the oceans, with estimates suggesting there could be at least 3000 similar locations like the Faroe Islands suitable for similar energy generation. Should all these locations implement lunar energy, it could potentially substitute all coal power currently under development globally.
As for its output, the energy kite Luna boasts a nominal capacity of 12 MW, sufficient to power around 200 villas for an entire year. The team at Minesto aims to scale up this technology further, targeting the establishment of a larger tidal energy facility capable of generating 200 MW, which could fulfill 40% of the electricity demand forecasted for 2030 in the Faroe Islands. This small island nation, home to approximately 50,000 residents and 70,000 sheep, is envisaging a future powered by green electricity through this innovative tidal technology, in collaboration with local energy company Sev.
Hákun Djurhuus, CEO of Sev, emphasizes the importance of tidal energy in achieving their ambitious goal of 100% renewable electricity production by 2030. The collaboration between businesses like SKF and Minesto is deemed integral for the renewable energy shift. SKF has played a key role in designing bearing and sealing systems tailored for the kite’s rudders and elevators, while its sophisticated software helps calculate the lifespan of components and gauge CO2 emissions, enabling a comprehensive comparison across different sustainable solutions.
Annika Ölme, Chief Technology Officer of SKF Group, asserts that cross-industry collaboration is essential for progress toward renewable energy solutions. With the space program concept, the partners creatively highlight the importance of leveraging Earth's existing resources to generate renewable energy through tidal forces.
According to the International Energy Agency, a staggering 80% of the world's electricity is still derived from fossil fuels. However, by 2050, ocean energy—characterized by its locality and predictability—could play a substantial role in the energy mix globally. Ocean Energy Europe estimates that ocean energy could supply up to 10% of Europe’s electricity and generate around 400,000 qualified jobs by 2050.
In summary, the partnership between SKF and Minesto represents a healthy blend of innovation, collaboration, and environmental stewardship, setting a precedent for how we capitalize on natural forces to propel our energy systems into a sustainable future.
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