DRIFT Energy has been recognized as a leader in sustainability for its groundbreaking work in generating green hydrogen through “true green” sailing catamarans. Founder Ben Medland addressed the limitations of land-based renewable energy solutions like solar panels and wind farms by harnessing ocean power. The concept of DRIFT originated with Medland.
One summer evening, he was out walking with his son, who asked why a local wind turbine wasn’t spinning. This sparked the idea in Medland’s mind: what if renewable energy generation could move to follow the weather? Rather than relying on land-based solar panels or wind farms, DRIFT harnesses the power of the ocean to supply green hydrogen, a clean energy source produced by the electrolysis of water, using a fleet of high-tech sailing vessels.
Initially, there was scepticism within the industry due to the lack of a demonstrator. Medland, however, successfully engineered a world-first by producing green hydrogen from two foiling yachts within twelve weeks and debuted the technology at a sailing event in Plymouth. DRIFT’s innovative approach allows it to produce and store gigawatts of green hydrogen, potentially becoming the least invasive and lowest footprint renewable energy solution, significantly contributing to the energy transition in the shipping sector.
drift’s dynamic green hydrogen solution
DRIFT was recognized at COP 28 for its sustainability efforts and is poised to continue its impact in the years to come. One of DRIFT’s standout features is its movement.
Utilizing a unique vessel routing algorithm named ‘Goldilocks,’ DRIFT boats can navigate to optimal wind conditions, ensuring they do not rely solely on weather forecasts. This algorithm helps the vessels avoid too little or too much wind and allows them to return to port precisely when their hydrogen tanks are full. Last year, DRIFT garnered significant support from the business community by securing £4.65 million in seed funding.
This investment will be used to expand its fleet and deploy flotillas in every ocean. The company focuses on supporting the energy transition for the 65+ million people living in Island Nations. Its ultimate goal is to abate one gigatonne of CO2 by 2050.
A commentator at the Sail GP event noted, “finally a renewable that doesn’t stand still and wait.” DRIFT is indeed pioneering a dynamic approach to renewable energy, setting a course for continued success and innovation in the years to come.
