Alternate Energy Secrets

I had heard of the idea of using the momentum of the waves as they come in and out of the shoreline to drive a turbine above the water level, but using the Tide and ocean current is really a cool idea. Most of the structure is below water level, and theere is a very small footprint on the ocean floor. From above water the structure appears as if it was a buoy or channel marker, but underwater, there are two turbines that look like a wind turbine.

Another rather interesting aspect is that this is more than an idea. This news story is actually about an International study that has identified 16 plausable sites on the Canadian East Coast. There would be enough (more…)

The latest alternative energy source taps into the great power of the oceans. This new technology relies on harnessing the power of waves. With nearly 70% of the planet being covered in water and hundreds upon hundreds of thousands of kms of coastline, one would think that this type of technology is a natural next step in creating a world powered by sustainable energy. While the power is obviously there waiting to be harnessed, the question is whether the technology is up to par.

Not only does each power station have to harness enough energy to make it worth the while, but it must also stand up to some of the most ferocious of Mother Nature’s great forces. If the station does take a beating, what will be involved in repairing it and how much will it cost? All of these are factors that will need to be investigated over the next couple of years at the existing test station in Australia and the new station to be constructed sometime in 2007 off Rhode Island. (more…)