Hybrid Clean Energy Installations
3 min read
- Innovations are being made in the clean energy industry
- Installations are beginning to be mixed-use in order to maximize energy generation
- The future is bright
We are all familiar with the main forms of renewable energy. From wind to solar to tidal, these have been around for decades. As we’ve progressed, the focus has primarily been on improving energy harnessing technology and making utilization financially competitive with fossil fuels. In addition, we are now beginning to see a focus on integrating different forms of renewables together in order to maximize the efficiency of energy installations.
A Revolutionary Idea
The energy company SINN has recently come up with a revolutionary idea. They have developed plans for a floating platform able to harness solar, wind, and wave energy. The platform is rectangular in shape with 4 buoys at its corners that raise it above the water surface. The four corners have installations akin to wind turbines to generate wind energy. The middle of the platform lying above water has solar panels. The middle of the platform below water generates energy from waves. SINN has made the platform to be easily installable and capable of withstanding the natural wear-and-tear of being in ocean water. This could be a major game-changer for coastal regions, and in regards to progress in the clean energy industry.
What’s Next
While promising, there are still a few obstacles that need to be overcome before these platforms can be installed and integrated into our energy supply systems. The platform needs to undergo much more testing. As of now, there are plans for this to occur in waters off the coast of Greece in the near future. Aside from testing energy efficiency, it will also be important to see how well the platforms can hold up in water over long periods of time. Outside of technical hurdles, there are many unknowns in regards to financial feasibility. In order two be installed, these will need to be competitive price-wise with alternative energy options that aren’t as clean. Finally, the environmental impact of these platforms must be assessed. Our marine ecosystems are delicate so extreme care must be taken before we do anything in our oceans.
Overall the future for renewable energy looks bright. Over time, renewables are becoming more affordable and the technology is quickly being improved. Positive change is on the horizon. Have wealth with impact and join Physis today to make a difference!
Sources:
first floating ocean hybrid platform can generate power from waves wind and solar
Solar arrays on wave energy generators, along with wind turbines
Study: Offshore Renewable Energy Installations Rough on Marine Life
This Clever Ocean Power Station Harvests Wind, Wave And Solar Energy on One Platform