Dutch tidal energy developer SeaQurrent has received support from the VIA 2017 program to advance its TidalKite device to next technology readiness (TRL) level.
With the VIA 2017 support, SeaQurrent plans to advance its tidal technology to TRL 5. The purpose of this phase is to demonstrate and validate the working principles of the TidalKite in a representative environment – at sea.
Validating the multi-wing operating principle in a representative environment confirms the feasibility of the final product and opens the way for the development of a larger 1:1 pre-production prototype that can then be demonstrated in an operational environment, SeaQurrent said.
SeaQurrent’s TidalKite consists of several subsystems and wings, and the kite itself is tethered to the seabed, squeezing a pressurized fluid to a hydraulic motor to generate power.
Earlier this year, SeaQurrent conducted the first tests on the prototype device at Maritime Research Institute Netherlands (MARIN).
The capacity of the full-scale TidalKite device is expected to be 500kW, and according to the statement from the company’s Chief Executive, Youri Wentzel, delivered in March this year, the technology will be ready in 2019.
The Accelerator Innovative Ambitions (VIA 2017), made possible by the European Regional Development Fund (EFRO) and the provinces of Drenthe, Fryslân and Groningen, stimulates innovation and economic development in small and medium-sized enterprises in northern Netherlands.