Exploring the Untapped Power of Marine Current Turbines

Felicity Bradstock is a freelance writer with expertise in Energy and Finance, holding a Master’s degree in International Development from the University of Birmingham, UK.

Underwater tidal turbines are now being considered a feasible renewable energy option, with both energy companies and governments investing in research and development to enhance their effectiveness and lower costs. Several trial projects worldwide, including in Japan and France, are showcasing the potential of underwater turbines in generating significant amounts of clean electricity from tidal movements.

In response to the increasing focus on green initiatives, energy companies globally are exploring innovative renewable energy solutions. One emerging technology gaining traction is underwater turbines, also known as tidal or marine current turbines, with new projects emerging in different countries. While scientists have long been optimistic about the capability of underwater turbines to produce clean energy, the technology has not been widely used compared to traditional renewable sources like wind and solar energy.

The potential of underwater currents is vast but tapping into it can be complex. These turbines are designed to capture the kinetic energy from currents and convert it into electricity. The U.S. Department of Energy (DoE) has initiated efforts to enhance the efficiency and affordability of underwater turbines, recognizing the lack of understanding regarding their interaction with the underwater environment. The DoE’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) has funded various projects aimed at developing cost-effective underwater turbine technologies, with a focus on reducing end costs and increasing efficiency.

Over the past five years, there has been a notable increase in the deployment of underwater turbines globally. Companies like Proteus Marine Renewables and Normandie Hydroliennes have launched projects in Japan and France, respectively, with the aim of producing clean electricity on a larger scale. These initiatives signify the growing interest and investment in underwater tidal turbine technology, with the potential for widespread adoption in the future.