This news will undoubtedly pique the curiosity of those interested in hydroelectricity, and more particularly in wave energy, also called wave energy. Wave energy, or undimotive energy, is a renewable energy source that is still little exploited, but which has enormous potential. By using wave movements to generate electricity, this technology could play a crucial role in the global energy transition. Dutch startup Slow Mill Sustainable Power is at the forefront of this innovation with its first floating turbine, the Slow Mill – 40.
An innovative floating turbine
The Slow Mill – 40 is designed to take advantage of the phenomenal power of tides and waves. This floating turbine uses both vertical motion and the reciprocating motion of waves to generate electricity. Anchored to the ocean floor to stabilize it, the device is able to position itself in areas where the water is sufficiently agitated, thus maximizing energy production.
Main features of Slow Mill – 40 :
- Design : Floating and anchored for optimal stability
- Movement : Uses vertical and horizontal wave movements
- Energy production : Converts mechanical energy into electricity
Simple and ingenious operation
The device is connected to an anchor that stabilizes it. With each wave, the device has been designed to be positioned where the water is sufficiently agitated. After having traveled a certain distance thanks to the waves, the system returns to its initial position, again thanks to the force of the water. During this time, a winch automatically winds the cable that secures the turbine to the anchor, thus preparing it for the next wave. Note that in the Netherlands, the Slow Mill – 40 will inaugurate the use of wave energy to produce electricity. This should happen during the month of July.
Despite two years of slowness due to the pandemic, we managed to build the device piece by piece, transport it to the port, assemble it, integrate the operating systems and dry test it.
Operation process :
- Anchoring : Stabilization of the device
- Wave motion : Generation of motion and return to the initial position
- Automatic winch : Cable management for continuous operation
Development and testing
Despite delays caused by the pandemic, Slow Mill Sustainable Power managed to assemble and test its device. In 2018, the system was tested off the island of Texel, demonstrating the viability of the project. In August 2021, the Empiric vessel, intended for the installation and maintenance of the infrastructure, made its first voyage, showing the commitment of the Dutch authorities to support this technology.
Development steps :
- Assembly and dry testing : Carried out despite the pandemic
- Test on Texel : Validation of the viability of the project
- Empiric’s first voyage : Demonstration of government commitment
Benefits of wave energy
Wave energy has several advantages over other renewable energy sources. It is predictable, reliable and has high energy potential. Additionally, using technologies like the Slow Mill – 40, it is possible to produce electricity sustainably without disrupting the marine ecosystem.
Main advantages :
- Predictability : Wave movements can be anticipated
- Reliability : Constant production of energy
- Sustainability : Minimal environmental impact
Future prospects
The success of the Slow Mill – 40 could pave the way for wider adoption of single-motor power. With adequate investment and support, this technology could become a key component of the global energy mix, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and contributing to the fight against climate change.
Outlook :
- Wider adoption : Potential for integration into the energy mix
- Reduction of emissions : Significant contribution to the fight against climate change
- Continuous development : Improvement and deployment of new single-motor technologies
Conclusion
The Slow Mill – 40 from Slow Mill Sustainable Power represents a significant step forward in the exploitation of wave energy. By using innovative technologies to capture the mechanical energy of waves, this floating turbine could transform the way we generate electricity, providing a sustainable and efficient solution to meet the world’s energy needs.
For more information: www.slowmill.nl