A licensing cooperation agreement, covering a range of tidal technology, has been signed between Alstom Hydro and the Canadian company Clean Current Power Systems Incorporated. The deal gives Alstom an exclusive worldwide license for ocean and tidal stream applications for Clean Current’s patented technology. According to Alstom, the agreement has provisions for sustained collaboration between both parties in order to further develop technology, install demonstrator units. Consequently, Alstom Hydro will be positioned as an equipment as well as turnkey provider for tidal stream farms. Alstom plans to commercialize its first tidal stream products by 2012.
Alstom Hydro
Alstom Hydro is the world leader in power generation and rail infrastructure. The company known for building the fastest trains and the highest capacity automated metro in the globe lays high standard for pioneering and eco-friendly technologies. Being the global leader in the supply of hydropower equipment & services, Alstom Hydro provide turnkey incorporated power plant solutions and allied services for a extensive range of energy sources. The energy sources benefiting from the services provided by the company include hydro, nuclear, gas, coal and wind. Representing more than 25% of the overall worldwide hydropower installed capacity Alstom Hydro has successfully installed over 400 GW of turbines and generators globally. Spreading its network in 70 countries, the group provides employment to 81,500 people. Alstom Hydro received orders worth €24,6 billion in 2008/09.
Clean Current Power Systems
Clean Current Power Systems Incorporated, a Canadian company specialized in the design and testing of tidal energy technology that converts the kinetic energy of the tidal currents into electricity. The technology function by making use of a horizontal axis channeled turbine with a direct drive variable speed permanent magnet generator. In order to utilize the two-way tidal currents completely the turbine generator is capable of functioning in both directions. The outer duct improves hydraulic competence and leads to operations that are more vigorous. A device is also integrated that works under the sea has been designed to minimize risks of outage and maintenance.
Environmentally Friendly features of Clean Current Technology
• Zero greenhouse or other type of emissions.
• Channeled blade tip prevents unintentional injury to sea life.
• The carbon footprint of each turbine generator in a power farm is small.
• Direct drive eradicates the use of a gearbox and drive shaft that is usually oiled with hydrocarbons.
• The generator will emit less noise when operational and will not hinder with sea mammal communication.
• Strong currents transmit many nutrients making it possible for sea life to revive quickly in case they are distressed during deployment.
Benefits of the venture
The main environmental regulatory bodies have a view that this emerging energy source is expected to play a vital role in renewable energy power generation. In case this technology is employed globally by all suitable tidal stream sites, 100 TWh of electricity could be produced annually, which is equivalent to the amount of consumption of 20 million western European homes or thrice the total consumption of Denmark.
The list of the advantages does not end here. In addition to its energy production potential, tidal stream power technology benefits the environment in numerous ways. It is natural, clean, invisible, and does not release any greenhouse gases. Catering to the growing electricity demand it is capable of supplying durable energy. Making it possible to meet terms with the increasing electricity demands is the 100% predictable and inexhaustible energy source.
Commenting on the recent announcement, Philippe Joubert, President, Alstom Power, said:
We are very excited about getting involved in this innovative renewable energy technology which is at the crossroads of Hydro and Wind technologies. This will enable us to leverage our market leading Hydro and Wind technologies, and the experience we have gained in these fields.
Mr. Joubert added,
We will be happy to provide an additional viable solution to our customers for meeting their renewable energy production targets and we look forward to government backing in order to further develop this new CO2-free technology.
Glen Darou, Clean Current’s President and CEO says,
Clean Current is very pleased to partner with Alstom Hydro, the world’s Number 1 hydro company. Alstom’s considerable resources applied to this new energy field will be a great asset for tidal energy.