The technology

Technology designed to withstand a hostile environment.

The utilisation of tide-induced currents is the number one focus of SABELLA’s development. SABELLA has developed a specific technology based on an original concept of a screen of turbines positioned on the seafloor. This submarine tidal turbine concept remains to date the only French industrial development of its kind. It is differentiated from emerging technologies around the world by its simplicity and its robust build, a guarantee of its reliability and low maintenance level in a hostile environment which is difficult to access.

It is characterised by a configuration of turbines juxtaposed on the seafloor, without impinging on the surface. These turbines are stabilised by gravity and/or are anchored according to the nature of the seafloor. They are pre-orientated in the direction of the tidal currents, and the profile of their symmetrical blades helps to capture the ebb and flow. The rotor activated, at slow speeds (10 to 15 rpm), by the tides, powers a generator, which in turn exports its electricity production to land via a submarine cable anchored and embedded at its landfall. Like wind turbines, an electronic power module regulates electricity produced by the variable speed generator to deliver an electric signal in compliance with the specifications of the national grid.

The dimensions of the turbines are adapted to suit the bathymetry of the site to prevent disturbance to navigation. Furthermore, inshore sites with strong currents are not areas used for deep-sea fishing (trawlers, pot haulers, gill-netters). Only line vessels, fishing for sea bass, operate at the surface in these areas. The choice of installation sites for the turbine will be made in conjunction with professionals from the fishing industry so as to avoid disturbing spawning areas or generating conflicts of use.