Alex and Dominic Michaelis and several researchers from the University of Southampton are working on a proof of concept prototype of their energy island.

The structure is an all-in-one solution featuring (open cycle) Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion, i.e. making use of the temperature difference of water at different depths in the ocean to generate electricity via a turbine. The process desalinates water, providing drinkable water as well. But there is more, the modular energy islands would also feature energytech to generate power from sun, wind, waves and underwater currents. Furthermore, vegetable farms could grow food.

“Each energy island would operate in a similar way to an oil rig, with about 25 people living there to operate the energy systems and food farms,” said Alex Michaelis. ‘Teams of workers would spend six weeks on the island and six weeks off. The islands can be linked together so if you wanted a bigger power output you could simply build a bigger settlement. In the future these energy islands could be linked together to become eco-tourism attractions.’”

The energy island is also in the running for Branson’s Virgin Earth Prize. Especially the way in which the concept tackles several challenges (food production, energy, drinkable water) in a combined fashion, is fascinating.

Thanks for the suggestion, Michael!
Image by EnergyIsland.org

This entry was posted on Wednesday, January 23rd, 2008 at 19:56 and is filed under envision, future, science, society, sustainability, technology, visions. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.