idénergie’s sustainable river turbine converts water flow into electricity
a small-scale hydrokinetic turbine that constantly generates energy
Montreal-based company idénergie has designed a hydrokinetic turbine that converts water streams into electricity. The tidal turbine is an old technique that depends on the water movement. Based on this method, the team developed a compact device that can power a household while minimizing the impact on the aquatic fauna and its habitat. The turbine serves as a continuous source of energy, as it is directly connected to a battery grid that recharges all day long, thanks to the continuous flow of the river.
The turbine is able to generate around 12 kWh per day. However, even at minimum capacity, the device produces enough power to meet the needs of typical electric devices found in a residence such as a refrigerator, TV, computer, and lighting.
all images by Idénergie
idénergie introduces an eco-friendly tidal turbine
Idénergie’s main target was to form a small-scale device for individuals, all the while based on bioclimatic principles. Thus, considering various studies regarding turbines and ecosystems, they utilized darrieus-type turbine that presents no harm to the marine fauna and flora. As for the materiality, the device is made mainly of noble materials such as aluminum, which means that can be recycled easily.
Besides sustainability, these devices can apparently reduce energy costs. According to their website, a single river turbine at maximum capacity is able to produce as much energy as 12 solar panels. Furthermore, its energy production guarantees annual savings of 50% of the maintenance cost compared with a gasoline-powered generator.
Meanwhile, the company‘s innovative shaftless technology prevents water from leaking into the generator’s electric envelope, making it 100% waterproof. What’s more, the built-in converter comes with many additional features including a self-starting turbine, continuous power optimization, remote monitoring capabilities and an emergency brake.
Easy to install even in shallow depths
Idénergie’s river turbine is delivered disassembled, making its transportation and installation easy. Although an expert installer is recommended, the users can proceed with the installation themselves. In only seven steps including safety guidelines — found online on their website — one can enjoy an endless supply of electricity.
In addition, the turbine is easily customized regarding the conditions of each river. This signifies that the device is conceived to perform even in shallow depths of less than a meter of water with a flow rate of 1 m/s.
project info:
by: idenergie
christina petridou I designboom
apr 24, 2022
