Stainless steel’s role in geothermal, hydro-electric, wind, wave and tidal power

Stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance properties that are essential in the extremely corrosive environment offshore wind farms and tidal power generation sites. Discover the important role that stainless steel plays in three clean energy technologies: geothermal, hydro-electric and wind power.

The necessary development of renewable energy to mitigate climate change has also sparked a new interest for micro hydro power. Water power has been recognized for more than a century as a provider of renewable energy. Most of the sites suitable for medium to large hydro power production have already been exploited, sometimes with big environmental concerns. Tapping into smaller streams or low head flow with micro hydro turbines has thus become attractive and many small-scale projects have been carried out. For all parts in contact with water, particularly moving parts, corrosion resistance is essential. 

In another application, the structure supporting the wind turbines of the Merkur offshore wind farm are exposed to strong underwater currents and mechanical stress and therefore require a rock-solid and flexible material that could also resist the corrosion of wind and sea spray.