A study on the performance of a novel underwater current energy harvester in environments with obstacles

Yang An, Gaofeng Wang, Xiaocen Wang, Song Shen, Yunkun Fu, Liqun Wu, Huan Xiang, Yingnan Liu and Zhigang Qu

Energy, 2025, vol. 336, issue C

Abstract: Ocean current energy, as an under-exploited renewable resource, offers significant potential for sustainable power generation. This study introduces a novel small-scale spherical power generation device with external blades, uniquely designed to efficiently collect ocean current energy while adapting to dynamic marine conditions. A key factor influencing device performance is the arrangement of obstacles in its operational environment. Systematic analysis reveals that optimal obstacle placement significantly enhances energy efficiency. Specifically, when the device is placed 70 cm after two obstacles which are 120 cm apart, power output increases by 80.06 %, from 1.77 W to 3.187 W. Conversely, when the two obstacles are 80 cm apart and the distance between the generator and obstacles is set to 80 cm, power output reduces by 26.80 %, to 1.296 W. This research presents a quantitative approach to enhance efficiency and adaptability of power generation devices in complex hydrodynamic environments thereby offers both theoretical insights and practical guidance for the advancement of marine energy systems and supports global renewable energy objectives.

Keywords: Ocean current energy; Spherical power generation device; Obstacle configuration; Energy efficiency; Marine energy systems (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:energy:v:336:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225041921

DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.138550

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