{"id":11469,"date":"2025-07-17T08:54:07","date_gmt":"2025-07-17T08:54:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sominnport.cat\/?p=11469"},"modified":"2026-09-10T12:59:37","modified_gmt":"2026-09-10T12:59:37","slug":"underwater-turbines-to-generate-renewable-tidal-energy","status":"publish","type":"cas","link":"https:\/\/sominnport.cat\/en\/observatori\/underwater-turbines-to-generate-renewable-tidal-energy\/","title":{"rendered":"Underwater turbines to generate renewable tidal energy"},"content":{"rendered":"

Project leaders<\/strong>
The development and implementation of the Dragon 12 underwater turbine is led by Swedish company Minesto, a specialist in tidal energy technologies with a strong presence in marine renewable energy projects.<\/p>\n

Project description<\/strong>
The Dragon 12 is a 30-ton, 12-meter-wide underwater turbine designed to generate up to 1.2 megawatts (MW) of electricity from tidal and ocean currents. This technology is based on the concept of an underwater kite: the turbine, anchored to the seabed by a cable, moves underwater following a figure-eight trajectory. It uses the hydrodynamic lift force created by the marine current to move, which increases the relative speed against the water flow and multiplies the power output. The system automatically controls the rudders to optimize movement and maximize electricity production.<\/p>\n

The energy generated by Dragon 12 is transmitted to land via an underwater cable and integrated directly into the power grid. The turbine has been successfully deployed in the Faroe Islands (Denmark), where it has already connected to the grid and is producing enough electricity to power 1,000 homes, proving the viability of the technology in real and demanding environments.<\/p>\n

The innovative component of the Dragon 12 lies in its ability to operate in relatively slow currents, where other conventional tidal technologies are inefficient. Its lightweight and modular design, along with the possibility of installation and maintenance using small vessels, significantly reduces costs and environmental impact. Additionally, the system operates fully submerged, with no visual impact and minimal environmental disturbance.<\/p>\n

\"Dragon<\/a>
Dragon 12 turbine following a figure-eight trajectory underwater to generate tidal energy<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Project goals<\/strong>
The project aims to position tidal energy as a key alternative within the global energy mix, especially in areas with tidal resources but limited access to other renewable sources. It contributes to the transition toward a more sustainable and resilient energy system and serves as a strong example of technological innovation applied to the blue economy.<\/p>\n

Minesto, through its Dragon 12, proves that renewable energy generation from tides can be reliable, efficient, and scalable. The company plans to scale up the solution with the deployment of up to 100 similar turbines, which could supply up to 40% of the electricity demand of the Faroe Islands and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.<\/p>\n

Publication date<\/strong><\/p>\n

July 17, 2025<\/p>\n

Relevant links<\/strong><\/p>\n