Batteries are evolving to the point where they can store large quantities of energy. Technology is progressing, and we believe human ingenuity will do the rest. But batteries can turn the climate change tide only when green energy production catches up. Tidal energy is a vast untapped renewable source.
The Natural Rise and Fall of Tides Produces Energy
Gravitational interaction between Moon and Earth causes ocean water levels to rise and fall consistently. Currents accelerate when they pass through tidal restrictions such as culverts, bridges, tide gates, and natural features. The world’s attention has been on this possibility for a while, but progress seemed slow.
This is disconcerting for several reasons. Firstly, water is denser than air, and delivers more energy at the same turbine diameter and rotor speed. Secondly, tidal power is more predictable and consistent. This vast renewable resource could combine with batteries to turn the climate change tide if we implemented it widely.
How Batteries Turn the Climate Change Tide in Orkney
Orkney is an island archipelago off the north coast of Scotland. It has significant renewable energy resources, and generates all its net requirements from these. Moreover, European Marine Energy Centre is pioneering tidal energy technology there too.
A green hydrogen project is in operation to power vehicles and warm community buildings. However, the ebb and flow of the tide is variable, and cannot supply the plant with electricity continuously.
But vanadium flow batteries can store energy, and deliver it consistently. European Marine Energy Centre is researching this option, and has successfully integrated tidal power with green hydrogen production.
Green hydrogen is carbon free throughout its production and consumption cycle. It could replace fossil fuels in the power sector, as well as decarbonize heavy industry and transport sectors. Flow batteries are helping turn the climate change tide on Orkney by proving their worth. It is time to roll this technology out.
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