This Eco-Friendly Device Harvests Energy from Ocean Waves
Katherine Pendrill — October 22, 2015 — Eco
References: youngscientistchallenge & fastcoexist
15-year-old Hannah Herbst recently designed a sustainable device that harvests energy from ocean waves. While many companies are investing in underwater power plants that convert ocean waves into energy, these facilities aren't ideal for communities in developing countries. Herbst's device offer a small-scale alternative for generating renewable energy.
Herbst came up with the idea for a small-scale power pant after corresponding with a pen pal in Ethiopia. She decided to design an inexpensive device that harvests energy from ocean waves. The device features a 3D-printed propeller that is connected to a hydroelectric generator. When waves pass over the propeller, the motion is converted into electricity. While the device does not generate a lot of power, it provides enough energy to run a desalination machine that converts ocean water into clean drinking water.
Herbst's invention demonstrates how communities can harness ocean water as a source of renewable energy.
Herbst came up with the idea for a small-scale power pant after corresponding with a pen pal in Ethiopia. She decided to design an inexpensive device that harvests energy from ocean waves. The device features a 3D-printed propeller that is connected to a hydroelectric generator. When waves pass over the propeller, the motion is converted into electricity. While the device does not generate a lot of power, it provides enough energy to run a desalination machine that converts ocean water into clean drinking water.
Herbst's invention demonstrates how communities can harness ocean water as a source of renewable energy.
Trend Themes
1. Small-scale Ocean Wave Power Plants - Developing small-scale power plants that harvest energy from ocean waves could provide a clean and renewable energy alternative for communities in developing countries.
2. Innovative Propeller Technology - Designing more efficient and cost-effective 3D printed propeller technology for hydroelectric generators could revolutionize the ocean wave energy generation industry.
3. Renewable Energy for Desalination - Exploring the potential for ocean wave energy to power desalination machines could lead to a sustainable solution for creating clean drinking water in areas with limited access to fresh water.
Industry Implications
1. Renewable Energy - Companies could invest in the development of small-scale ocean wave power plants to expand their renewable energy portfolios and reach new markets in developing countries.
2. 3D Printing - 3D printing companies could partner with hydroelectric generators to create more efficient and cost-effective propeller technology for ocean wave energy generation.
3. Desalination - Desalination companies could explore the use of renewable energy sources like ocean wave power to reduce the environmental impact and lower the cost of creating clean drinking water.
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