Revolutionizing Renewable Energy: How the Faroe Islands are Harnessing Tidal Forces
Since 1907, SKF has manufactured some of the world's most innovative bearings, seals, lubrication systems, and condition monitoring solutions designed to reduce friction. Now, in collaboration with Minesto, a leading developer in marine energy, they are embarking on an ambitious project to harness the power of the moon through tidal energy. This initiative, labeled as a space program that never intends to leave Earth, aims to tap into the resources available here on our planet.
The Faroe Islands stand as a beacon of hope in the global energy transition, targeting a 100% renewable energy goal by 2030. At the heart of the project is a remarkable invention called the tidal kite, named Luna, which operates silently and invisibly underwater. This innovative device captures energy from daily tidal flows that are generated by the moon's gravitational pull, ensuring that energy production continues regardless of weather conditions.
Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto, emphasizes the potential of this technology, stating, "For us as a technology development company working with a global industrial company like SKF is both an educational experience and an inspiration." The impact of this project could extend beyond the Faroe Islands, as it is estimated that there are 3,000 similar locations around the world that could benefit from the same technology. If these regions adopt moon energy, it could potentially replace all coal power capacity currently under development globally.
The Luna tidal kite boasts a nominal power capacity of 12 MW, sufficient to supply electricity to approximately 200 villas for an entire year. With plans for a new tidal energy facility that could reach a capacity of 200 MW, the project aims to meet up to 40% of the anticipated electricity needs of the Faroe Islands by 2030. This would provide green electricity for a small island nation with a population of just 50,000 and a sheep population of 70,000.
Collaboration plays a vital role in this initiative. The local power company, Sev, is working alongside Minesto to unlock the potential of tidal energy. The CEO of Sev, Hákun Djurhuus, asserts, "Our vision is to reach 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 for the project, including the design of bearing and sealing systems for the kites’ rudders and elevators. Their software systems also calculate bearing lifespan and estimate CO2 emissions, enabling an evaluation of different solutions from both technical and sustainability perspectives. Annika Ölme, Chief Technology Officer for the SKF Group, further explains, "Together with Minesto, we show how technology and innovation can drive the transition to renewable energy."
The project's framing as a space program that remains on Earth highlights the importance of leveraging resources that our planet already has to offer. According to the International Energy Agency, 80% of global electricity currently comes from fossil fuels. However, projections suggest that by 2050, ocean energy could significantly contribute to the energy mix, potentially supplying 10% of Europe's electricity and creating 400,000 qualified jobs.
This groundbreaking project in the Faroe Islands represents a commitment to embracing a sustainable future through innovative technologies. By utilizing the power of the tides, we can chart a course toward a cleaner, greener world.
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