So when we quit using fossil fuels, what’s going to happen to oil tankers? Video games and movies mostly stick with the theory that we’ll hollow them out and use them as post-apocalyptic housing. Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that. Instead, they may have a future as giant, floating power farms that generate energy from waves.

A new theory wants to cut out openings in the ships so that as they travel over the waves, they can use water pressure to generate energy. This energy can be stored and used for other applications. An interesting idea that would certainly be a solution to the otherwise unwieldy ships who have lost their function.

This is still just an idea but a similar one was tested in Japan during the 70s. The results then weren’t great but with new technology, researchers hope to see a higher return. The ships may also be used for manufacturing so that the energy can be used right away in production. Check out the article for the full plans.