Tidal Turbine Power

This is one exciting alternative energy initiative that I first saw on Sundance Channel’s Big Ideas for a Small Planet.  Verdant Power is installing turbines in the Hudson River in New York City.  The turbines are underwater near the banks of the river and use the natural current of the river to generate energy.  Their first installation is a test phase for 18mos that is on Roosevelt Island. 

The turbines look very similar to a standard wind turbine.  They rotate with the current and are regulated to only turn at a certain speed so that they do not endanger fish and water fowl.  During their first 18month trial, they are closely monitored to make sure they aren’t harming the environment.  If the trial goes as planned, Verdant Power will install a field of turbines in the river.  The large field of turbines will have the potential to generate 10 megawatts of power.

The first six turbines are powering a supermarket and a large parking garage.  The total structure is about the size of two city blocks.  That’s pretty impressive.

Rivers aren’t the only underwater placement of turbines.  There are other companies experimenting with floating turbines that are tethered to the ocean floor.  The turbines are specially made for the ocean with non-toxic materials.  The special materials will not rust or wear easily and they are also resistant to barnacles.  As with the river turbines, the speed is regulated to ensure that all wildlife is unharmed.  It’s all pretty cool stuff.

If you ask me – this is one of those brilliant ideas that when you first hear it you instantly think to yourself, “why hasn’t anyone else tried this?”  It just makes so much sense.  With solar and wind energy – both great – you are dependent on the weather.  With tidal kinetic energy – it’s always on.  The river is always flowing.  Oceanic currents are always there. 

Okay – now sit back and relax for 6min.  You can spare six little minutes to watch this brilliance, right?  Enjoy.

Source: Current TV, Verdant Power