Vortex Hydro Energy tests hydrokinetic generator in St. Clair River

One of Michigan's most innovative alternative energy start-ups began testing its technology this week when Vortex Hydro Energy put its hydrokinetic power generator into the St. Clair River.

This technology, birthed from University of Michigan research, doesn't use propellers to harness the energy of a river current. It utilizes the physical phenomenon of vortex-induced vibration, where water current flows around cylinders, inducing transverse motion, which is then turned into electricity.

"This first test is really looking at the mechanics of the system," says Jim MacBain, vice president of Vortex Hyrdo Energy. "We don't expect to generate a lot of energy."

The generator will remain in the river for the next three months, where it will be monitored by an underwater camera and divers. The 3-year-old start-up expects to begin commercializing the technology by 2013.

"We're about 2-3 years away," MacBain says.

Source: Jim MacBain, vice president of Vortex Hydro Energy
Writer: Jon Zemke