A small island nation off the coast of Spain is run on 100% renewable power. El Hierro isn't the only country capable of this level of sustainability, but is unique in that it uses a combination of wind energy and a volcanic crater to do this. While other states might be close, El Hierro will be the first to fully supply its population of 10,000 with wind and hydroelectric energy.
In addition to a wind farm being installed in the north of the island, a volcano's crater will act as an energy storage device. This volcanic reservoir will provide renewable energy on calmer, less windy days as electricity is generated from partial draining and the resulting kinetic energy from water running down the volcano. Together, these two processes will work similarly to a Rube Goldberg machine.
What's Driving This Trend
- Renewable Power
- Opportunity for businesses to develop innovative renewable energy solutions using wind and hydroelectric power sources.
- Energy Storage
- Potential for disruptive innovation in energy storage technologies utilizing volcanic reservoirs to store and provide renewable energy during periods of low wind or calm weather.
- Sustainable Island Nations
- Emerging trend of small island nations aiming to achieve complete sustainability by leveraging renewable power sources, presenting opportunities for businesses in the renewable energy sector.
Who This Affects Most
- Renewable Energy
- Businesses in the renewable energy industry can explore new opportunities in wind and hydroelectric power technologies.
- Energy Storage
- Innovative energy storage companies can consider utilizing volcanic reservoirs to create efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions.
- Island Nation Development
- An emerging industry focused on developing sustainable infrastructure and energy systems for small island nations.
