New Tidal Energy Device
A new tidal energy device is to be tested in the Exe Estuary
from late October.
An advancement on the traditional propeller
style blades used in previous models the new prototype designed
by Aquascientific has much wider blades and works similarly
to a combine harvester, extracting energy in three dimensions.
Aquascientific, who are based in Exeter, believe that through
this design improvement the turbine will be able to catch more
energy and generate 50% more power.
The turbine is the firm’s third prototype, the previous two having
been tested in tanks at the University of Exeter, and is thanks to
a research grant of £250,000 from the Technology Strategy Board.
The 20 kilowatt turbine is due to be lowered from Exmouth Mussels' mussel cleaning barge in late
October or early November, with a 500kw upgrade next in line.
Unlike most tidal energy generators, which require pilings driven
in to the sea bed at the cost of millions and to the detriment of
the environment, the new prototype will be moored.
From the Autumn 2008 Exe-press Newsletter.