Scientists and companies are looking for new ways to generate energy without polluting, and a Canadian company called Idenergie has created an amazing invention: a turbine that uses moving water to generate electricity. This turbine works in rivers or streams and can produce as much energy as 12 solar panels put together. The best part? It can harness the power of water constantly, without depending on the sun or the wind.
Renewable energy without relying on the sun?
While solar panels rely on daylight, the water turbine promises to generate clean energy 24 hours a day using only the flow of a nearby river or stream.
This turbine can generate up to 12 kWh a day, meaning that homes located near rivers or canals could have a constant source of electricity without interruptions, without worrying about lack of sun or battery storage, and thus reduce emissions (and save a bit on electricity bills).
How does this water turbine work?
This turbine harnesses the power of the tides (the natural movement of water in oceans and rivers) to generate electricity, in the same way that a hydroelectric power plant uses the power of water in dams. But in this case, the turbine is installed directly in the water and works with the constant flow of sea or river currents.
Compared to solar panels, which only generate electricity during the day, this turbine produces energy without interruptions, making it a reliable option for places where a constant supply of electricity is needed.
Idenergie’s design is inspired by the Darrieus rotor, an efficient technology that makes it possible to harness the energy of water without affecting the ecosystem. In addition, its aluminum structure is 100% recyclable, making it a more than sustainable option.
And is their placement harmful to the environment?
That is the best thing about this invention, that placing them does not affect aquatic fauna because it protects the fish by ensuring that their operation is compatible with the environment in which they are placed.
What is the difference between the Idenergie turbine and tidal energy?
- The Idenergie turbine uses rivers and freshwater currents, so it can be installed near rivers or streams, and tidal energy can only be installed in tides or coastal areas.
- The turbine can operate 24 hours a day because its flow is constant, while tidal energy depends on tidal cycles.
- Installation and maintenance costs are also a point of difference between the two; the turbine is compact and easy to transport and has low maintenance costs, while tidal energy has a heavier infrastructure and its maintenance is much more complicated and expensive.
| Feature | Idenergie Turbine | Tidal energy |
| Location | Rivers and freshwater currents | Oceans and bays with strong tides |
| Availability | 24/7, uninterrupted power | Depends on tidal cycles |
| Environmental impact | Low, does not harm aquatic life | May affect marine ecosystems |
| Installation cost | Low, easy to set up and maintain | High, requires costly infrastructure |
| Energy production | Up to 12 kWh/h (equal to 12 solar panels) | Can generate large amounts, but intermittently |
Why is this type of technology important?
With climate change and the need to reduce the use of fossil fuels, these solutions are key for the future. Simply put, the future of clean energy lies in the combination of the power of water and wind, and technologies like these are making it increasingly accessible and efficient for everyone!