SKF and Minesto Launch 'Space Program' to Harness Moon's Tidal Forces for Renewable Energy

SKF, one of the largest bearing manufacturers, and ocean energy developer Minesto are unveiling a groundbreaking 'space program' aimed at harnessing the power of the Moon’s tidal forces to generate renewable energy.

This ambitious project focuses on utilizing Earth’s existing resources by tapping into the energy created by the Moon’s gravitational pull. The program will deploy cutting-edge tidal energy technology, such as the tidal kite 'LUNA,' which is designed to silently and invisibly harvest power from the ocean’s tides. This marks a significant step in renewable energy development, as tidal power is considered one of the most predictable and reliable renewable sources on the planet.

“Imagine a future powered by the tides of the Moon. This unique project dares to dream big and explores the potential of renewable tidal energy,” said Annika Ölme, CTO & SVP of Technology Development at SKF. “At SKF, we are proud to be a part of this down-to-earth project that aligns with our values and our ambition to create a more sustainable world.”

For the past year, SKF and Minesto have been testing their technology off the coast of the Faroe Islands, in the Atlantic Ocean, with the aim of harnessing predictable tidal energy. The LUNA kite has successfully launched into the ocean, operating underwater to capture energy from the Moon’s tidal currents, regardless of weather conditions. Tidal energy is now being explored by a few countries with suitable tidal conditions, but the potential for large-scale adoption remains vast.

Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto, expressed excitement about the collaboration with SKF: “For us, as a tech development company, working with a global industrial leader like SKF is both a learning experience and an inspiration. We estimate that there are at least 3,000 other regions worldwide that could benefit from this technology, and if they all adopt it, moon energy could replace all coal power capacity currently under development globally.”

This initiative marks the beginning of the Faroe Islands Space Program, which will be anchored in Earth-based tidal energy exploration. The LUNA kite has a rated power of 1.2 MW, enough to power 200 homes for an entire year. Looking ahead, the project’s next phase aims to establish a 200 MW tidal energy facility, which could meet 40 percent of the country’s expected electricity needs by 2030. The green energy generated would power the nation’s 50,000 people and 70,000 sheep.

In collaboration with the Faroese electricity company Sev, the project supports the country’s goal to achieve 100 percent renewable electricity generation by 2030. “Tidal power may prove to be a vital part of this journey,” said Hákun Djurhuus, CEO of Sev.

SKF has been instrumental in designing the bearing and sealing systems for the tidal kites’ rudders and elevators, using advanced software to calculate the efficiency and sustainability of the systems. “Collaboration across industries is essential for progress,” Ölme added. “Together with Minesto, we are demonstrating how technology and innovation can drive the transition to renewable energy.”

The Faroe Islands project is not only a major step for renewable energy but also a potential model for regions worldwide. As countries like India and Southeast Asia pursue energy security and sustainability, tidal energy offers a promising solution for coastal areas. Sujeeth Pai, Director of Industrial Market at SKF India Ltd, highlighted the global relevance of the project: “This collaboration represents a breakthrough in how we approach renewable energy, utilizing the Moon’s gravitational pull to create a steady and predictable power source.”

With the Faroe Islands as the launchpad, this space program—rooted firmly on Earth—could serve as a key catalyst in the global transition to clean, renewable energy, proving that innovation can take many forms, even without venturing beyond our planet.