Technology Developer
PRIMRE/Databases/Projects Database/Devices/SeaQurrent
From Open Energy Information
< PRIMRE | Databases | Projects Database | Devices
SeaQurrent
The system, illustrated above, comprises a TidalKite (1) that is connected by means of a (high tech cable) tether (2) to a power take off (PTO) (3). The PTO is fixed to the seabed by means of a Mooring Structure (4) and electricity is distributed to shore by an underwater electric export cable (5). The TidalKite itself is a single rigid, buoyancy-neutral and hydrodynamic device, consisting of a frame with multiple wings placed in tandem. The kite wings capture the water flow, accelerating the kite through the water. The kite creates a huge lift force that is transferred via the tether to the power take-off. The power take-off comprises a hydraulic cylinder and a hydro motor-generator combination. The hydraulic cylinder is extracted by the traction force of the kite and the pressurised liquid is expanded over the hydro motor-generator combination, where clean electricity is generated. The electricity is transported via an underwater export cable to the grid.
Additional Information
Device Status
Is the device actively being developed or is available for purchase (active)? Or has development or support ended (inactive)?
Active
Technology Type
Power Take-Off
Mechanism that converts the motion of the prime mover into a useful form of energy such as electricity, learn more
Hydraulic Generator
Surface ExpressionFalse
Estimated TRL
Estimated Technology Readiness Level scale from 1 to 9 with 9 being the most mature technology
TRL Last updated: 22 September 2023
6
Energy Resource
- Ocean Current
Water Column Position
Surface
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Submerged - Mid
Entire Water Column
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Submerged - Bottom
Last Modified
6 May 2025
Citation Formats
“SeaQurrent.” Marine Energy Projects Database: Devices, PRIMRE, United States Department of Energy, https://openei.org/wiki/PRIMRE/Databases/Projects_Database/Devices/SeaQurrent. Accessed <day> <monthRoman> <year>.
Marine Energy Projects Database: Devices. <year>. "SeaQurrent." Accessed <monthRoman> <day>, <year>. https://openei.org/wiki/PRIMRE/Databases/Projects_Database/Devices/SeaQurrent.
