In the midst of the energy transition, they have managed to cover the sea to produce energy. A company in the sector has launched an invention that works even with tsunamis, but can generate something unexpected. Ever since the high environmental footprint of fossil fuels came to light, the world has been desperately searching for new forms of energy. In this context, we have already witnessed amazing forms of energy, such as this tulip that can create energy at 200 km/h.
Although there is much talk about the need to replace fossil fuels with renewable energy sources, the energy transition goes beyond a decarbonized economy. In 2015, all countries signed a historic agreement in which they agreed to combat climate change, the Paris Agreement. The implementation of this agreement requires a transition to a more sustainable model, the pillars of which are the circular economy, energy efficiency, the integration of renewables, the use of synthetic fuels and the establishment of electric mobility, among other things.
The main objective of this change is to convert the energy system, promoting the use of renewable energies, circular economy and other ways of reducing polluting emissions. It seeks to raise awareness about responsible and sustainable energy consumption, in addition to strengthening energy efficiency guidelines through electrification and digitalization in all processes and sectors of the economy.
Now the sea is covered with energy: this invention will surprise you and surprise you a lot
Italian startup Saipem has launched XolarSurf, the first modular floating solar power prototype designed to work in extreme marine environments, such as waves up to 8 m high. It is a modular solution created to cope with extreme marine conditions. It was developed by Saipem’s Norwegian subsidiary, Moss Maritime, in conjunction with local manufacturer Kystteknikk and other subcontractors.
The launch took place at Kystteknikk’s facilities on the island of Frøya in Dyrvik, Norway, the prototype’s “home” for a year to analyze its performance and production capacity. XolarSurf has been designed to withstand waves up to 8 meters high. A capability that makes it the first full-scale prototype to undergo such extreme tests. A real milestone to demonstrate the technology and pave the way for its commercialization on a large scale.
XolarSurf’s technological solution makes it possible to produce electricity from solar panels mounted on floating platforms, specifically designed to withstand harsh marine conditions. Modularity is one of its most outstanding factors, since it allows the development of “islands” formed by several small floats. Photovoltaic (PV) panels are installed on them.
Each of these floats houses the necessary capacity to produce between 35 and 45 kWp of installed power. The number varies depending on the environmental conditions and the size of the panels. This project comes after years of research, development and tests analyzed in detail.
Sea energy takes over: this is the invention that promises to revolutionize the energy sector
Among the most striking benefits of XolarSurf is its ability to be incorporated into hybrid renewable projects, such as fixed or floating offshore wind farms. Its definitive implementation could be a before and after in the energy sector, as it could harness energy from places that lack sufficient land to implement other forms of renewables, such as the installation of traditional solar panels.
In short, covering the sea with floating solar energy could be the solution for human beings to supply themselves with energy and gradually get rid of their dependence on fossil fuels. If you want to know more about this type of energy, just visit our special article about it. We tell you everything you need to know.
