Tidal energy added to Japan’s energy mix

Japan’s post-Fukushima search for new sources of electrical power has led it to tidal energy.

The country’s first tidal turbine will be delivered this October. The new turbine, made by Tocardo BV International of The Netherlands, will serve as an important demonstrator of tidal technology in Japan.

Tidal energy or tidal power is a form of hydropower that converts the energy of tides into electricity using specially designed turbines that can be mounted on a floating platform or attached to the ocean floor.

Tocardo International recently signed a dealership contract with Spectol Power Design Co., Ltd of Japan to market its Tocardo Tidal Turbine Technology.

Tocardo is targeting Japan as a highly promising market for tidal and river energy generation. Both firms will focus on turbine supply deals of 18 MW over the coming three years.

SPD President & CEO Nobuhisa Hayashi said the deal with Tocardo will allow his company to offer clients a renewable, economic and reliable energy source.

Tocardo CEO Hans van Breugel, on the other hand, said they are thrilled to have entered into the agreement with SPD based on mutual trust and a shared vision of the potential of Tocardo tidal technology.

Tocardo free-flow in-stream hydro turbines can be compared to “underwater wind turbines.” These free-standing underwater units generate energy from sea currents and tidal and river flows.

Tocardo turbines have an output ranging from 100kW to 200 kW. Tocardo said its technology has been proven over three years in currents as fast as 4.5 m/s. The company is also developing 500 kW and 1 MW offshore turbines.