Department of Energy Develops Seabed Batteries for Drone Submarines
The Department of Energy is collaborating with Zeno Power to develop seabed batteries that can charge drone submarines. These batteries utilize strontium-90 generators, which have been in storage for decades. The initiative, part of the DEPTHS program, aims to create decentralized energy nodes on the ocean floor, providing long-term power for seafloor sensors and autonomous underwater vehicles. The project is funded by a $7.5 million contract from the Department of Defense, with contributions from various partners, including Blue Origin and Sunpower. The technology promises to offer a sustainable power source for maritime operations, reducing the need for support ships and cables.