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🗞️ Driving the news: British startup Drift Energy is developing a racing yacht that will generate clean hydrogen while sailing
• Equipped with an underwater turbine and an electrolyzer, the vessel converts seawater into hydrogen gas, storing it onboard for later use
• This innovation introduces a new form of mobile renewable energy without requiring fixed infrastructure
🔭 The context: Wind energy has become a major global power source, and offshore wind is gaining traction due to stronger and more consistent wind speeds
• Drift's vessels aim to "chase" optimal wind conditions using AI to maximize efficiency
• The first commercial models, expected within two years, will be 190 feet long and produce up to 150,000 kg of hydrogen per year
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Hydrogen is a clean alternative to fossil fuels, crucial for decarbonizing heavy industries and transport
• Unlike traditional wind farms, these vessels can operate without permanent infrastructure, reducing environmental impact
• If successful, they could expand the availability of green hydrogen and reduce dependence on fossil fuel-based hydrogen production
⏭️ What's next: Drift aims to launch its first commercial fleet soon, targeting industries, island nations, and shipping companies
• The high initial cost—around $24 million per ship—will decrease with scaling, potentially making hydrogen more affordable than grid-connected electrolysis by 2030
• Future applications could include green ammonia production, data centers, and marine research
💬 One quote: “We make renewable energy in the ocean using sailboats, and deliver that energy to ports across the globe.” — Ben Medland, Drift Energy CEO
📈 One stat: Wind power now accounts for about 8% of global energy production and is expected to surpass hydropower as the second-largest renewable source by 2030
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