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Harvest energy from the ocean using convoys of sailing ships

Created by S.K. on January 18, 2013

We can pursue energy independence without building more natural gas and oil refineries. There is a more efficient alternative to building more wind farms and solar power plants. We can harvest power from the ocean using a new type of sailing vessel.

The sailing vessels would use wind power for movement. Attached the the vessel's external hull and below the waterline will be turbines. As the ship moves through the water due to wind power, the water flows through the turbines, generating electricity. The electricity generated by the turbines will be used to desalinate and electrolyze sea water into hydrogen and store the hydrogen in on-board tanks. When the tanks are full, the vessels return to dock and unload tanks. Fuel cell power plants use the hydrogen to generate electricity and water.

Energy & Environment
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