The Clean Current tidal turbine generator uses the same basic principles as wind energy. Power is a function of density of water, velocity of currents and the radius of the turbine blades. The Clean Current tidal turbine is ducted, creating higher efficiencies than can be developed by a turbine alone. The turbine blades are bi-directional and equally efficient in the ebb and flood of tides. Tidal velocities are predictable on a 19 year cycle.

The world market for tidal energy is  estimated at about 67,000 MW. If that capacity displaced the equivalent in fossil fuel, it would reduce CO2 emissions by about 120 million tonnes annually.

The Clean Current tidal turbine generator will be deployed commercially in farms of 20 to 500 units and will compete economically with fossil fuel based electrical generation. Each unit will produce between 2,300,000 and 5,000,000 kW hours of electricity annually depending on the diameter of the unit and the strength of the tidal currents. The commercial units will be connected to a national or regional electricity grid. Low cost renewable energy that is environmentally benign creates the market pull for the commercialization of this technology. Tidal current energy is absolutely predictable, making it a desirable addition to base load requirements. It is a variable source so that it must be coupled with other generating sources or suitable storage to supply peak demands.

Clean Current tidal turbine generators can be used in small configurations with storage capacity (e.g. batteries). However the unit cost will be higher because of the required storage. This type of application will compete successfully against high cost alternatives such as diesel generators.

Clean Current’s technology converts the kinetic energy of tidal currents into electricity with unprecedented efficiency. Efficiency and operability in salt water are the key ingredients of a successful tidal technology. Clean Current’s tidal turbine generator is a bi-directional ducted horizontal axis turbine with a direct drive variable speed permanent magnet generator. This proprietary design delivers superior water to wire efficiency. Operability is enhanced by a simple design that has one moving part, the rotor assembly that contains the blades. There is no drive shaft and no gearbox. Seals for the bearing system must be replaced every 5 years and the generator will be scheduled for an overhaul every 10 years. he production system will have a service life of 25-30 years. During that time it will generate electricity with zero emissions, a modest footprint on the bottom of the ocean and negligible impact on marine life.

From inception Clean Current has followed a disciplined technology development plan. This plan included two prototypes built in 2002,2003, culminating in proof of concept testing at the 200 metre towing tank at the Institute for Ocean Technology in St. John’s, Newfoundland in 2004. The next step in development was the Race Rocks Demonstration Project. A commercial scale tidal turbine generator unit will be designed and demonstrated in the Bay of Fundy in 2009 (read more...).

©Clean Current™Power Systems Incorporated, 2006

September 17, 2004
Clean Current Power Systems Incorporated files for patent for flow enhancement for an underwater turbine generator.

March 29, 2004
Clean Current completes proof of concept testing at the National Research Council Institute of Ocean Technology.  

September 21, 2001
Clean Current Power Systems Incorporated files for patent for underwater ducted turbine.

June 27, 2001
Clean Current Power Systems Incorporated created to commercialize tidal turbine generator design concepts.