Imagine a world where the predictable power of lunar cycles is harnessed to light up our homes and cities. This isn’t a scene from a science fiction novel; it’s a reality brought to life by Minesto’s Dragon 12, a 28-ton tidal kite that’s now exporting power to the grid with the grace of an underwater glider and the efficiency of a green energy powerhouse.
Minesto’s fully operational Dragon 12 is a marvel of modern engineering, resembling a futuristic military drone that dances through the ocean’s currents. Unlike traditional tidal turbines that remain stationary, the Dragon series is anchored to the sea bed and flies through water, exploiting the kinetic energy of tides in a dynamic and efficient manner.
Solar energy has long been the cornerstone of renewable energy plans, but the Dragon 12 taps into the even more predictable lunar energy. The device uses lift generated by tidal flows to fly patterns faster than the currents, harvesting renewable energy in a way that could change the game for coastal communities and countries with access to tidal flows.
The Dragon 12’s design is not just innovative; it’s also practical. The kite’s 12-meter wingspan and significant weight might suggest a complex installation process, but in reality, it’s surprisingly simple. It can be disassembled to fit into a shipping container and installed using a modestly sized boat and a sea bed tether, making it a nimble alternative to larger offshore power options.
The economics of renewable energy are crucial, and Minesto’s Dragon 12 shows promise with a projected LCoE of about $108/MWh, which is expected to decrease with scale. This is competitive with other tidal energy projects and not far off from the LCoE of offshore wind projects, which stood at around $89/MWh in 2022.
The Faroe Islands, with their narrow channels that accelerate tidal flows, provide an ideal testing ground for the Dragon 12. The first Dragon has been deployed here, and as of Friday, it’s been connected to the local power grid, beginning its journey of delivering energy. Dr. Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto, expressed his excitement, stating, ‘We have reached the most significant milestone in the history of the company by producing electricity to the grid with our mega-watt scale powerplant.’
The Dragon 12’s success in the Faroe Islands is just the beginning. With the world’s eyes on sustainable energy solutions, the Dragon 12’s ability to provide powerful, cost-effective, and predictable electricity could make it a key player in the renewable energy sector.
As we look to the future, the potential of tidal energy is immense. With companies like Minesto leading the charge, the oceans’ tides could become a reliable source of green energy. The Dragon 12 is more than just a technological achievement; it’s a symbol of the innovative spirit driving us towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.
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