While in theory, hydrokinetic energy offers impressive energy capturing capability near some of the world’s largest and most polluted population centers, in practice the nascent green energy technology has yet to see a major implementation. But thanks to a team at Great Britain's Manchester University, the technology may be one step closer to viability.

The team’s research has resulted in the Manchester Bobber, a float-and-flywheel, array-based hydrokinetic power device. Though more complicated than competing designs, it is built entirely from existing parts, keeps the important bits above water, and can sink itself to prevent damage in storms.

The team now seeks roughly $22 million dollars in investment money to build and install a 1/100th scale array in Orkney, in Northern Scotland. While that price tag is a bit out of my range, it would be well worth the cost to finally see hydrokenetic energy function to generate power in a large-scale application. After all, there’s a prize pot waiting that would all but pay back the initial “waves” of investment.