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Can Hurricanes Be Used to Generate Wind Energy? According to Estimates, They Could Produce Up to 600 Terawatts of Power

Written by Roberta Souza
Published on 02/02/2023 at 16:35
Porto do Açu, energia, eólica, offshore, Prumo
Imagem: Reprodução Pinterest
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Cities Affected By This Natural Disaster Could Continue Operating With Generated Energy

Wind energy is an alternative for generating clean, renewable electricity without producing greenhouse gases by harnessing the wind. Surprisingly, according to American astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson, it is possible to use hurricane winds for generating this type of energy. (Source: Site Escola Educação).

The astrophysicist presented his idea on a television show in the United States and opined that hurricane winds would be a unique raw material for generating wind energy. He even poked fun at scientists when he said that science should find a way to leverage this wind. According to Tyson, a city hit by hurricanes could continue operating with the energy generated by them.

Is The Scientist’s Idea Of Generating Energy From A Hurricane Really Viable?

According to information released by Terra, it is estimated that a hurricane could generate a force of 600 terawatts. That number represents more than double the wind energy production of the United States over a year. However, a large magnitude hurricane has an enormous destructive power, making this idea not easy to implement.

Furthermore, the investment in equipment would be massive, as the common blades used to “capture” the wind are very fragile and lightweight. Thus, one of the biggest challenges for engineering would be to design equipment capable of withstanding the average of 108 km/h of a hurricane.

A Hurricane Is Not Composed Only Of Wind

Contrary to popular belief, wind is just a part of a hurricane’s formation. In fact, most of the energy of a hurricane or cyclone is stored in the form of heat. This heat is released as water vapor condenses into rain.

However, research is ongoing and hopes are never lost. According to the article released by Terra, scientists are indeed working on a continuous electricity generation system that can withstand the force of a hurricane to harness its energy.

Roberta Souza

Author for the Click Petróleo e Gás portal since 2019, responsible for publishing over 8,000 articles that have garnered millions of views, combining technical expertise, clarity, and engagement to inform and connect readers. A Petroleum Engineer with a postgraduate degree in Industrial Unit Commissioning, I also bring practical experience and background in the agribusiness sector, which broadens my perspective and versatility in producing specialized content. I develop content topics, disseminate job opportunities, and create advertising materials tailored for the industry audience. For content suggestions, job vacancy promotion, or advertising proposals, please contact via email: santizatagpc@gmail.com. We do not accept resumes

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