Underwater kites are an innovative technology that utilizes the power of sea currents to generate renewable energy. These tethered devices resemble traditional kites, but instead of soaring through the air, they "fly" underwater, propelled by the movement of the water.
Here's how they work:
The kite, equipped with wings, is anchored to the seabed by a tether.
The current pushes against the kite's wings, creating lift and propelling it through the water.
As the kite moves, a turbine mounted on its body spins, generating electricity.
The electricity is transmitted through the tether to the seabed and then to the mainland grid.
Advantages of underwater kites:
They can operate in both strong and weak currents, making them suitable for a wider range of locations compared to traditional tidal turbines.
The "flying" motion of the kite allows the turbine to experience a faster water flow than the actual current speed, which significantly increases energy production.
Their design is relatively simple and uses fewer materials, potentially reducing costs.
Challenges of underwater kites:
The technology is still in its early stages of development and requires further testing and refinement.
The underwater environment can be harsh, and the kites need to be designed to withstand corrosion and biofouling (the accumulation of marine organisms on surfaces).
The environmental impact of these devices needs to be carefully assessed to ensure they do not harm marine life or ecosystems.
Companies like
Minesto are developing and deploying underwater kite technology, with their Deep Green system undergoing testing and demonstration phases.
Underwater kites hold promise as a clean and sustainable way to harness the power of sea currents and contribute to the global renewable energy mix.
Video:
https://youtu.be/MbHDrgK7Wus