Renewable energy that can be generated in the Seto Inland Sea─This is what Kiyoshi Fujiwara, President of SETO iS POWER, says. TOMOTSUKU LAB previously interviewed Mr. Fujiwara about the future of tidal power generation and the challenges it faces.This article revisits the background, mechanisms, and possibilities of tidal power generation discussed in the interview.
Japan aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, by balancing its greenhouse gas emissions and absorption to net zero. As an interim target, the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 46% compared to fiscal year 2013 levels by 2030 has also been set, making the energy transition an urgent priority. That is a reason why a new form of renewable energy known as tidal power generation is gaining attention.
Why tidal power generation?
Tidal power generation harnesses the currents created by the ebb and flow of tides to systematically produce electricity. Key features include:
- Can expect stable power output throughout the year.
- Precise forecasts of power generation are possible.
- Electricity can be generated even at night.
- Suits Japan’s geographical conditions well.
As tidal currents remain stable throughout the year, the electricity they produce may serve as part of the baseload power source that forms the foundation of electricity supply.
Energy that supports daily life
Mr. Fujiwara who spent his childhood in a port town along the Seto Inland Sea says:
- I would like to provide the community with an energy resource that is generated by the everyday sight of the flow of the sea.
- The power generation system is compact, lightweight, and easy to handle. It would be great to create something as popular as the Roadster within the renewable energy industry.
- Our goal is to empower local communities to become self-reliant and restore their pride through energy. I would like to make it an exciting activity.
We plan to use barges that are currently unused and floating in the Seto Inland Sea when installing power generation systems. We will also use lightweight, highly durable materials to create energy infrastructure that local communities can easily maintain. Our tidal power generation project aims to promote the production and consumption of local renewable energy among the people living in the area, not just the production of electricity.
Starlite is currently conducting verification tests for social implementation of tidal power generation with four participating organizations. Stay tuned to see what new energy emerges from this collaboration!
You can read the interview to learn more about Mr. Fujiwara’s passion and vision.