Tidal energy | closely with organizations like the Alderney
Wildlife Trust to gather data and ensure transparency. As Levene explains: “Fish swim through our models as if they aren’t there. We’re committed to proving that this technology doesn’t harm the environment.”
Tides2Tea: bridging the gap between
technology and people To make tidal energy more relatable and engage the public in the transition to clean energy, Spiralis Energy launched the Tides2Tea campaign. The initiative invites individuals to purchase a “future cup of tea from the tide,” symbolizing their support for the project. Each supporter’s name will be inscribed on one of the Axial Skelters, with the names forming a figurative petition to show policymakers the level of public interest in tidal energy. Once deployed in Alderney the Axial Skelter will feature a live feed, where during slack tide supporters can try to spot their name real-time. Levene emphasizes the campaign’s goal: “Tides2Tea is about making tidal energy relatable. By tying it to something as universal as a cup of tea, we’re showing people the real-world impact of this technology. It’s about creating a personal connection to the future of energy.” The Tides2Tea campaign also serves as a way for Spiralis Energy to demonstrate public support for tidal energy and push for greater government focus on the sector, which has often been overlooked despite the UK’s rich tidal energy resources.
Environmental stewardship From its inception, Spiralis Energy has prioritized
Below: Spiralis Energy Tides2Tea Infographic
environmental sustainability. The company’s design philosophy centres on creating technology that works in harmony with nature, leaving minimal ecological impact. This commitment is evident in the design of
the Axial Skelter, which avoids the use of sharp blades or fast-moving parts that could harm marine life. In addition, Spiralis Energy’s environmental monitoring practices ensure that the deployment of its devices does not disrupt local ecosystems. Levene explains: “The Axial Skelter isn’t just about generating energy – it’s about proving that innovation can go hand-in-hand with ecological preservation.” Spiralis Energy works closely with environmental organizations, local governments, and stakeholders to ensure that its technology adheres to the highest standards of sustainability. The company’s focus on transparency and collaboration with local communities sets it apart in an industry that is often scrutinized for its environmental footprint.
Looking ahead While Spiralis Energy’s primary focus is on deploying
the Axial Skelter off Alderney, the company envisions global applications for its technology. evene is optimistic about the potential for tidal energy to play an important role in the green energy mix and to be deployed in a variety of settings around the world: “We have designed something that, within three years, can compete on cost with wind and solar - this has never been done before. The Axial Skelter could work in rivers like the Rhine or Mississippi, as well as tidal flows in places like New Zealand or Canada, providing a cost-effective, sustainable energy solution for communities worldwide.” In the long term, Spiralis Energy plans to become an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), supplying its systems to other organizations and taking a share of the revenue generated by the energy produced. This approach will allow Spiralis Energy to scale its operations and bring tidal energy to a broader range of markets.
36 | January 2025 |
www.waterpowermagazine.com
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