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Spotted: In 2030, renewable sources generated a record 30 per cent of the world’s electricity, namely thanks to wind and solar power. But, to fully transition away from fossil fuels and reach 2050 targets, we need to take advantage of every clean energy source the Earth has to offer – including the ocean. Enter Equinox Ocean Turbines.

Seeing huge potential in the deep blue, the Dutch startup has developed next-generation, two-stage underwater turbines with semi-floating foundations, which are capable of generating power even at low-flow speeds. Equinox’s proprietary system can be installed using ordinary tugboats, with the turbines able to function at a variety of ocean depths – ranging from 100 to over 1,000 metres below sea level. As well as being cost-effective to produce and deploy, the turbines have little to no impact on marine life.

According to the company, ocean currents represent over 700 gigawatts of largely untapped potential clean energy. And unlike solar or wind power generation, which are subject to changes in the weather, ocean current power remains stable and reliable. Plus, the turbines have no visual impact or land footprint, unlike their wind power counterparts.

Last month, the company closed a €2.4 million seed funding round, which was led by EIT InnoEnergy. The recent financing will help Equinox create a pre-commercial turbine by next year and expand the company’s global footprint ahead of a full commercial launch in coming years.

Written By: Matilda Cox