Osmotic power
The energy is based on the natural phenomenon osmosis , defined as the transport of water through a semi-permeable membrane. This is how plants can absorb moisture through their leaves – and retain it. When fresh water meets salt water, for instance where a river runs into the sea, enormous amounts of energy are released. This energy can be utilized for the generation of power through osmosis.
At the osmotic power plant, fresh water and salt water are guided into separate chambers, divided by an artificial membrane. The salt molecules in the sea water pulls the freshwater through the membrane, increasing the pressure on the sea water side. The pressure equals a 120 metre water column, or a significant waterfall, and be utilized in a power generating turbine.The membrane is the most essential component in the osmotic power system. Statkraft has been involved in the development of suitable membranes through several years, and in 2011 a cooperation with Nitto Denko, a world leader in membranes, were established.
Statkraft and Nitto Denko/Hydranautics cooperates to make osmotic power reality
(Oslo/Oceanside/Osaka 20 June 2011) Statkraft and Nitto Denko/Hydranautics have entered into an agreement for the development and supply of membranes for osmotic power. The agreement will accelerate the development of the new renewable energy.
Salt in San Diego
This summer’s membrane conference in San Diego, held by Statkraft’s osmotic power team, was a huge success, with more than 100 participants from industry and research communities working to develop membranes for osmotic power and clean water production – and there was substantial interest in Statkraft’s experiences from the osmotic power plant at Tofte.
Membrane hunting in San Diego
Better membranes separating salt water and fresh water are the key to making osmotic power profitable. Statkraft continues its hunt at the membrane conference in San Diego this summer.
The world’s first osmotic power plant opened!
The sun shone through the windows, the bass rumbled through the speakers and Crown Princess Mette-Marit enjoyed the world’s first cup of tea made using osmotic power. The opening of the world’s first osmotic power plant was a blast.
UN Climate Panel experts visit Statkraft
The world’s top climate experts have visited Statkraft to learn about hydropower and osmotic power.
