Eco Factor: Osmotic power is utilized to generate carbon neutral electricity.
Among various projects that are being established worldwide to provide renewable and carbon neutral energy, Statkraft, one of Europe’s leading renewable energy companies, has added another entrant to the list with the opening of its first osmotic power plant in Norway. According to the company, the project has a limited capacity and is undergoing testing at the moment, but they hope to commercialize it soon. The company estimates that the global potential of osmotic power is equivalent to half of the European Union’s current energy production.
The prototype plant is expected to generate 2-4 kilowatts of power, sufficient to run a coffee machine. The phenomenon behind this technology is simple; seawater, which contains salt, when mixed with fresh water stimulates osmosis across the membrane. Higher pressure generated on the side of the sea water creates movement in the turbine and ultimately generates electricity. This method can be utilized with other sources of water like river water and other natural freshwater sources as well.
Via: CleanTechnica/Reuters
