A university researcher has received a funding boost from the Canadian government for the development of innovative hydrokinetic turbines.
An investment in the amount of C$500.000 (US$ 385.300) has been announced for the Engineering Faculty of the University of Manitoba.
It will support the testing of hydrokinetic turbines for global marine renewable energy markets, the Canadian government’s press release reads.
The Faculty will use the funds to develop and calibrate new tools, systems and technologies to test prototype hydrokinetic turbines in Manitoba rivers, as well as marine tides off the coast of Vancouver Island.
According to the University of Manitoba, Professor Eric Bibeau will receive the funding that will enable the purchase of new equipment which will help bring the technology to the market, creating economic opportunities in remote communities and opening the global marine energy market to Canadians.
“Our Government is proud to support the unique work being done by the University of Manitoba. Today’s investments speak to the talent of the faculty and researchers of all project partners and our support will help drive commercial opportunities that will create jobs and growth while bringing new products and services to market,” said Michelle Rempel , Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification.
Hydrokinetic turbines are being developed with new design concepts and require testing to measure how river and ocean sediment and debris impact turbine performance and power levels before they can be sold in Canada and on the global market, it is stated in the Canadian government’s press release.
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Image: University of Manitoba/Illustration