Harnessing Power from Water

When it comes to renewable energy, hydroelectric power is on the rise, especially in rural, typically off-grid regions. Turbulent has seized the opportunity to make an impact in these areas with an easy, eco-friendly solution.

Turbulent is a company based out of Belgium founded by Jasper Verreydt and Geert Slachmuylders. Their mission is to “bring clean and affordable electricity to remote locations by developing new technologies and empowering local cultures to use them”. The company grew its image by attending start-up summits and cleantech challenges.

Turbulent has created hydroelectric power plants that are not only cost effective, but can also be installed in any river, canal, or waterway. The power plant consists of a powerful vortex turbine that produces from 15kW to 70kW of power. The turbine is encased in a concrete (typically) channel that directs the water through the turbine. The integrated design provides an eco-friendly environment for fish and other wildlife as well as protects the unit from large debris.

What I like about Turbulent is that instead of trying to change the entire world, they are working on improving one area at a time. With a focus on rural areas, underrepresented regions and people can thrive off of clean, sustainable energy.