This rather strange picture is actually what some scientists think the future of energy will look like. The rods depicted are slow moving pistons which harness the incredible power of currents and transform it into usable energy. These pistons have as yet no negative environmental impact and could produce relatively inexpensive energy.
As Americans are realizing that coal is an unsustainable source of energy, we are eagerly searching for alternatives. Wind, river, and sun power have all been explored, with varied results. However, the power of the ocean currents, perhaps the most powerful force on earth has been strangely neglected. The reason for this could be the enormous expense associated with marine research, although scientists believe that once created, marine energy producing tools could be highly cost effective. "If we could harness 0.1 per cent of the energy in the ocean, we could support the energy needs of 15 billion people", said Michael Bernitsas, a professor of naval architecture at the University of Michigan. In a time when people are increasingly concerned for the future of energy, such a statement should inspire us to look deeper into marine current energy. Below we can see an artist's representation of submarine turbines.
Further research can be done by going to the following websites.
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