Performance energy production with advanced design and prototype floating ducted tidal turbine for small islands

Abstract

The urgent need for an energy transition from conventional to renewable energy sources (RE) has become a strategic priority to ensure a sustainable and clean energy supply. In archipelagic nations, renewable energy technologies must be reliable, sustainable, predictable, and environmentally compatible with local wisdom and development goals. Indonesia possesses a total tidal current energy potential of 17.9 GWh, with the Maluku archipelago predicted to have a power density of approximately 4.75 kWh from tidal energy conversion. This study introduces a Floating Ocean Current Power Plant (FOCPP) prototype, incorporating a ducted tidal turbine and a floating moored pontoon system. The platform integrates a low-speed synchronous generator and other electrical components. The prototype was tested in the Haya Strait, Western part of Seram Island, Indonesia, where tidal current speeds reached 2.54 m/s. The results demonstrated a turbine speed enhancement of 1.25–2.65 times, achieving a peak operational period of 19 h per day and producing 72 kWh of energy daily, 2206.4 kWh monthly, and 38.9 MWh annually. These findings suggest that implementing ducted tidal turbines in small island communities can provide a sustainable clean energy solution with minimal greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study highlights the potential for global and national support in accelerating the transition toward renewable energy adoption in remote and underserved regions.