Will ships become generators of green energy?
Will ships become green energy generators?
In a world facing environmental crises and global energy problems, attention is turning to the seas as an untapped source of clean and sustainable energy, as maritime shipping – which is responsible for about 3% of global emissions according to UN reports – is in need of innovative technologies. To reduce its carbon footprint.
So Chinese scientists created a new green technology through a device called “Heaving oscillators”, which means “fluttering oscillators” in Arabic. The goal of this technology is to transform ships into energy generators through waves. Which could radically transform how the maritime industry operates. Therefore, in this article, Earth Guards will shed light on the potential of this technology, and measure the extent of its future impact on marine sustainability. So keep reading.
From waves to energy
In the study published by the “Renewable Energy” magazine, published by the “Science Direct” website; Chinese researchers used the “Heaving oscillators” device to capture the energy of sea waves, then convert it into electricity. The device – after being installed inside the ship’s hull – converts the movement resulting from the ship’s vibration in the water into electrical energy through a hydraulic generator.
The device consists of a strong frame fixed inside the ship at the top and bottom, where the “shaker” moves over sliding columns with the movement of the ship. Kinetic energy is used to move the hydraulic generator, which converts mechanical energy into electricity.
Preliminary experiments have shown that this technology can capture 91% of the energy contained in waves under ideal conditions, and – according to the study team leader, researcher Yao Liu – the scope of use of this device can be expanded to include other marine structures, such as buoys and floating platforms; Which opens new horizons for marine energy production.
Ships sailing on the energy of waves
While “flapping vibrators” technology addresses ships’ need for electrical energy, other research is moving towards exploiting waves to improve propulsion systems. A team from the British Cranfield University developed a technology known as “Wave Devouring Propulsion,” which means “wave-devouring propulsion,” which uses fins similar to those found in whale tails. To convert waves into propulsion energy for ships.
This technology was inspired by the movement of whale fins. Researchers studied how whales use waves to achieve maximum propulsion with less effort. They also developed a system that mimics this movement. To be integrated into marine propulsion systems. This innovation is characterized by reducing fuel consumption, improving propulsion efficiency, and reducing carbon emissions, and can be integrated with hybrid systems based on electricity or hydrogen. Which makes it suitable for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the maritime sector.
Potential applications and their environmental impact
Possible applications of these technologies extend to small and large commercial vessels, in addition to their use in unmanned offshore platforms. Thanks to their efficiency in reducing dependence on traditional fuels, these solutions will contribute to reducing operational costs for marine companies, while significantly reducing polluting emissions.
On the environmental level, these technologies represent an opportunity to reduce emissions in a marine sector that is considered one of the most energy-consuming sectors. Thus, the seas can become a sustainable source of clean energy. Which enhances the achievement of global climate goals.
In conclusion, Earth Guards confirms its constant endeavor to shed light on everything related to the development of renewable energy technologies in the marine sector and all other sectors. She believes that such innovations may represent the keys to the doors of a green and sustainable future, as ships become a model for environmental innovation and clean energy.
