Building on our established concepts and in order to refine our design, GKinetic travelled to the IFREMER test facilities in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France to carry out an accurate flow analysis study.

The controlled test conditions allowed us to monitor the influence of device depth, inlet flow angle and device pitch on power generation efficiency. Testing was carried out and the resulting data analysed in collaboration with MaREI.

The use of such facilities is vital to the ongoing optimisation and refinement of our design.

The GKinetic technology is a first of its kind thanks to its patented ‘bluff body’ concept. More power can be generated from slow-flowing water which is found in most deployment sites, thus opening up the mass market via a distinct competitive advantage that cannot be replicated.

The GKinetic concept involves two vertical axis turbines placed on either side of the buoyant vessel. The shape of the vessel increases the speed of water into the turbines. The combination of the accelerated flow along with our patented Blade Pitch Control System results in higher power outputs. There are no major civil works required, users can simply anchor the device in the flow.

Our technology exploits the natural phenomena that occur when fluid accelerates around and outside an obstacle. This allows for significant energy to be generated in low flows. The device is scalable up to 250kW and can be deployed in arrays to maximise power generation.