A revolutionary device has been invented, which scientists assure can generate enough energy to power the whole world, from ocean currents.

The scientists say that the technology can harness the power in water flowing at a rate of less than one knot an hour. This means that most waterways and sea beds around the globe could be used to generate power.

It was informed by Professor Michael Bernitsas, who led an international team at University of Michigan that basically the device was based on the changes in water speed when a current flows past an obstruction.

Professor Bernitsas reported, “This is a totally new method of extracting energy from water flow. Fish curve their bodies to glide between the vortices caused by the bodies of the fish in front of them. Their muscle power alone could not propel them through the water at the speed they go, so they ride in each other's wake.”

He informed that the device, dubbed as Vivace or vortex-induced vibrations for aquatic clean energy, has actually been inspired by the way a fish swims. It contains of system cylinders that are positioned horizontal to water flow and attached to springs

The cylinder creates vortices when water flows past it. The vortices also push the cylinders up and down. Following this, the mechanical energy in the vibrations is converted into electricity.

Prof Bernitsas, whose study is published in the Journal of Offshore Mechanics and Arctic Engineering said, “The technology requires up to 50 times less ocean acreage than wave power generation. If we could harness 0.1 per cent of the energy in the ocean we could support the energy needs of 15 billion people.”