SKWID - Wind and ocean power exploitation system

At present, renewable energy systems from wind and ocean currents are not rare. MODW (Mitsui Ocean Development & Engineering Co.) of Japan has announced that they are about to test SKWID - the first system to exploit both power sources at the same time.

SKWID (short for Savonius Keel and Wind Turbine Darrieus) is a floating system in place with a submerged " Savonius " wind turbine and a vertical turbine on the water. Both are connected to a gear / generator system, allowing the device to generate electricity from ocean currents, wind or both. In addition, the rotation of the Savonius turbine can complement Upper wind turbine when the wind is quiet and needs inertia.

The design of the Darrieus turbine makes it possible to rotate from left to right or vice versa, so it does not depend on the wind direction. Meanwhile, the Savonius turbine can only be rotated one way, but it does not depend on the direction of currents. According to MODEC, this turbine can harness the power of even the weakest currents, and is unaffected by the growth of marine organisms on semi-cylinders. In addition, because the turbine does not rotate at high speed, it is also considered safe for the marine environment.

The SKWID is anchored in the high seas and the design of the seafront generator and the Savonius turbine below will keep the system at a low center of gravity. In addition, the upper circular dome is attached to the central structure by flexible rubber edges that allow it to swing along the rhythm while maintaining the stability and sustainability of the turbines and machines. integrated cradles.

One of the first SKWID systems to be set up and tested off the coast of Japan next fall. The wind turbine will be 47m higher than the sea surface, 15m in diameter. When working together, both turbines can generate enough electricity to supply about 300 homes.