A new hybrid wind system - tidal energy
The Japanese company MODEC unveiled a model of an innovative hybrid system during the Wind Expo which was held from February 27 to March 1, 2013 at the Tokyo Big Sight convention center.
This system, which responds to the name "skwid", combines two elements:
1. A Darrieus type vertical axis wind turbine that generates twice as much electricity as a traditional wind turbine used on land. In addition, its center of gravity is located relatively low, thus giving the assembly greater stability on water.
2. A Savonius rotor which generates energy from ocean currents.
According to the company, it constitutes the most economically efficient marine wind system. The generator is installed at the junction of the two and therefore makes it possible to generate electricity thanks to the two components. MODEC has launched the production process of a device with a power of 500kW and intends to test it at sea by the end of 2013.
Marine energy is an area in which Japan has recently been investing heavily. Indeed, many offshore wind farm projects have recently been launched in the archipelago, especially off the coast of Fukushima prefecture.
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Acronyms used:
MLIT: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport
Source: http://www.bulletins-electroniques.com/ ... /72410.htm
In English: http://techon.nikkeibp.co.jp/english/NE ... 28/268591/