Dutch company SeaQurrent uses the steady power of tides for sustainable energy. Their TidalKite System works underwater, moving in figure eights like a flying kite, to capture energy.

SeaQurrent’s founder got the idea for the company while kitesurfing and sailing on the Wadden Sea, where he saw the energy potential of tidal currents. The team started with three people, all eager to make a positive impact. Now, with 25 dedicated experts, SeaQurrent works to provide reliable and eco-friendly energy solutions, using the consistent power of tidal currents to make clean energy more accessible. 

Transforming tides into power: the TidalKite system

The TidalKite system represents a significant advancement in tidal energy generation. It uses multiple wings to capture energy over a large area, ensuring continuous production regardless of the weather. This technology turns the movement of tidal currents into electricity by driving a hydro motor connected to a generator, providing green energy  all year round. ’The Dutch Wadden area’s tidal energy is found in its shallow tidal channels between the islands, with relatively lower current speeds. The TidalKite’s ability to cover larger areas than traditional turbines enhances energy access and cost efficiency and makes it possible to exploit the Wadden sea tidal resource’, explains co-founder Maarten Berkhout. Unlike solar and wind energy, which need large storage due to their unpredictability, tidal energy is consistent and reliable.

BlueInvest in action

Through the BlueInvest Fundraising Assistance Programme, SeaQurrent was matched to a fundraising expert. This support gave them valuable insights, helping with their equity journey and improving subsidy proposals. ‘Most valuable were the pitch and Q&A trainings, which helped us learn how to respond specifically and convincingly to investor questions, effectively bringing us to the next level’, according to Maarten Berkhout. 

After closing their recent investment round, the TidalKite is being tested near the Dutch island of Ameland and is expected to supply electricity from tidal flows to around 700 households by the end of the year. SeaQurrent plans to expand into European markets like Ireland, France, and the United Kingdom. In the long term, they aim to double the tidal energy market by complementing existing technologies for greater reach.

About BlueInvest

BlueInvest is the EU’s innovation and investment platform for the blue economy, offering business coaching, fundraising support, and networking opportunities for ocean technology companies. Interested individuals can register with the BlueInvest Community to explore programme features and opportunities or contact lu-blueinvestpwc [dot] lu (lu-blueinvest[at]pwc[dot]lu).

More information

Website: SeaQurrent 

Social media: Linkedin