From tidal flows to baseload power – an innovative solution tested in the Faroe Islands

The ETRIC project is developing an innovative microgrid solution to generate electricity from tidal energy in the Faroe Islands. Using advanced turbine technology, grid integration, and the use of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), the project investigates how tidal energy can contribute to a stable, efficient, and sustainable energy supply for island communities.

How can small islands and communities without access to a main power grid secure reliable and renewable electricity? This is the central question driving the ETRIC project, in which IVL is an active partner. With a total budget of SEK 56 million, supported by the Swedish Energy Agency, the project aims to demonstrate a solution where tidal energy provides baseload power in an isolated power system in the Faroe Islands.

The ETRIC project is part of the global energy transition and addresses the need for sustainable, clean, and reliable energy sources. Tidal energy is advancing rapidly, with progress in turbine technology, resource assessment, and grid integration. It has strong potential in areas with powerful currents, such as the Faroe Islands, where wind and solar can at times be limited by geography and climate. Many of the world’s islands rely heavily on imported fossil fuels, making their energy supply costly, vulnerable, and carbon-intensive. At the same time, there are untapped marine resources, especially tidal energy, that can provide local and sustainable solutions.

For the Faroe Islands, the transition to renewable energy is a priority in order to reduce emissions, increase energy security, and build a more resilient system. Tidal flows are predictable and well suited for baseload electricity generation. However, traditional technologies require high flow speeds, involve significant installation costs, and face challenges in harsh marine environments. ETRIC introduces a new turbine capable of generating energy at low flow speeds, making it possible to harness power in more locations and achieve a more consistent output. This addresses a critical gap in current technology.

The project aims to demonstrate how local tidal resources can be used to supply reliable electricity to remote islands. It responds to the global need for clean and scalable energy solutions for communities that currently depend on fossil fuels. The demonstration in the Faroe Islands serves as a model that can be replicated on other islands and in remote locations. Long term impacts include commercialization of the technology, opening new markets, contributing to climate goals, increasing energy security, and strengthening innovation capacity. By combining research, technology, and local applications, ETRIC is positioned to play an important role in the transition to a sustainable global energy system.

In the film, you will gain insight into IVL’s work within the ETRIC project, with a focus on developing an innovative solution for measuring underwater sound. It presents a noise reducing shield for hydrophones that minimizes unwanted noise and enables more reliable measurements in marine environments.