Facing the growing need to **diversify the energy matrix** and [reduce **CO₂ emissions**](https://noticiasambientales.com/innovacion/algas-marinas-contra-el-metano-una-estrategia-emergente-para-reducir-emisiones-del-ganado/), aeronautical engineer **Mauro Grioni**, a postdoctoral fellow at **CONICET**, is driving a project that leverages an underutilized source: the over **12,000 km of irrigation canals** in the province of **Mendoza**.
His proposal involves the design of a **hydrokinetic turbine (HKT)** capable of generating electricity locally and with minimal environmental intervention.
Irrigation Canals as an Energy Source
The turbine would supply farms, wineries, nearby houses, and could even connect to the national grid.
Grioni is developing the project at the **Institute of Structural Mechanics and Seismic Risk (IMERIS)** at the [**National University of Cuyo**](https://www.uncuyo.edu.ar/).
According to him, HKTs could **reduce transmission losses**, **decentralize energy production**, and **avoid large civil works**, thus **reducing costs** and [**minimizing environmental impact**](https://noticiasambientales.com/innovacion/minicasas-holandesas-transforman-turbinas-eolicas-en-hogares-sostenibles-con-bajo-impacto-ambiental/) compared to other hydraulic technologies.
Aeronautics Applied to Hydraulic Efficiency
The design incorporates winglets on the impeller blades to enhance **energy efficiency**.
Inspired by **aeronautics**, Grioni included **winglets**—wingtip devices—in the ends of the turbine impeller. These elements, which **reduce tip vortices** in airplanes and wind turbines, could **further increase efficiency** in confined flow channels.
Computational **fluid dynamics simulations (CFD)** allow for the validation and optimization of the design before real-world implementation.
Experimental Validation and Commercial Projection
**The prototype will be tested in an experimental channel** and aims to be scaled up through institutional partnerships.
The next stage includes the **construction of a functional prototype**, its **testing under controlled conditions**, and **seeking funding** to scale the technology. Grioni envisions its **market introduction in 3 to 5 years** through partnerships with **local governments, agricultural cooperatives, and energy entities**.
“The HKT can revitalize the local industry, supply independent users, and strengthen the regional power supply,” says Grioni.
Replicability Potential and Territorial Expansion
**The technology could be adapted to other regions and even coastal marine currents.**
Although the initial focus is on **irrigation canals in Mendoza**, the design shows **high replicability potential** in other areas with similar characteristics.
In the future, it could be applied to **coastal marine currents**, expanding its impact on the energy transition.
Scientific Exchange with France: International Boost for Innovation
**Grioni visited centers of excellence in hydraulics and applied physics**, strengthening the project’s development.
Thanks to the **Franco-Argentine Distinction in Innovation 2024**, Grioni spent time at the **CREMHyG in Grenoble** and the **Pprime Institute in Poitiers**, renowned for **renewable technologies and water management**.
The exchange provided **key tools to improve the design**, validate the prototype, and establish **international collaboration links**.
