Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion

Name:
Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion
Detailed information:
(OTEC). Utilization of ocean temperature differentials between solar-heated surface water and cold deep water as a source of electric power. In tropical areas such differences amount to 35–40F. A pilot installation now operating near Hawaii utilizes a closed ammonia cycle as a working fluid, highly efficient titanium heat exchangers, and a polyethylene pipe 2000 feet long and 22 inches inside diameter to handle the huge volume of cold water required. Alternate uses for such a system, such as electrolysis of water, ammonia production, and desalination, are envisaged. There has been active interest in the possibilities of this energy source in France from the time of d'Arsonval (1885) that continues especially in Japan and Hawaii. Ongoing research indicates that OTEC may be harder to commercialize than once projected.