Pipe uses waterwheel technology, powers light bulbs

Pipe uses waterwheel technology, powers light bulbs

BY NICOLETTE EMMINO

Imagine illuminating your lamp by running water in your sink? Okay, maybe it’s not that simple, but a new form of renewable energy has been created by Korean inventor Ryan Jongwoo Choi using waterwheel technology.

The waterwheel is an ancient device dating back to as early as 4,000 B.C. It was one of the first ways that human and animal powers were eliminated for working purposes. The waterwheel used flowing water to create power, and the force of the water was able to move the paddles and in turn create working power.

An example of a more modern version of the waterwheel is the hydraulic turbine, in which a rotary engine uses water to turn a shaft that propels machinery. You might see one of these being used in a hydroelectric plant.

So, what does this have to do with energy renewal? Well, Choi recently developed the ES Pipe, which can be installed onto an existing pipe.

The ES Pipe converts flowing water into energy to be used as light.

The pipe, consisting of tiny turbines that generate energy with water flow, contains light bulbs that can save energy. When you run your water, the flow creates energy that can be stored in the light bulbs for later use. You can use these bulbs in your lamps by just turning a button on the bulb.

Choi wanted to make use of wasted water for areas where electricity is scarce.

Solar energy is an energy renewal method as well, but why not employ water that we’re going to use anyway? Often we leave the water tap running in our homes. Choi’s goal is to make use of the unnecessary water flow.

A creation like this one can benefit many nations whose electricity needs cannot be met. In Nigeria, for example, only 30% of electric power demands can be provided.

According to Choi, “If we apply this product to the existing pipelines or to new ones which will be produced, it will be very valuable energy source for the people who need a small bit of light. And we can also enlighten people that the water we use is a valuable resource that can be used again as another source of energy.” ■