Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC)

Front

What is the principle of OTEC?

Back

OTEC uses the temperature gradient in tropical and subtropical oceans, where the surface water temperature is significantly warmer than that of the deep water.

Front

What is the temperature of warm surface water in OTEC?

Back

Often above 25°C (77°F).

Front

What is the temperature of deep water in OTEC?

Back

Typically, it is around 5°C or 41°F at depths of 1,000 meters or more.

Front

What is the process of Closed-Cycle OTEC?

Back

1. Warm seawater is pumped into a heat exchanger. 2. The working fluid vaporizes. 3. The vapor expands through a turbine. 4. Cold deep seawater condenses the vapor back into a liquid. 5. The cycle repeats.

Front

Why is it called 'Closed-Cycle' OTEC?

Back

The working fluid is contained within a closed loop and reused in the system.

Front

What are the applications of Closed-Cycle OTEC?

Back

1. Electricity generation 2. Industrial cooling 3. Aquaculture 4. Desalination

Front

What are the advantages of Closed-Cycle OTEC?

Back

1. Renewable energy 2. Base load power 3. Environmentally friendly 4. Versatile

Front

What are the limitations of Closed-Cycle OTEC?

Back

1. High initial cost 2. Low efficiency 3. Site dependent 4. Environmental impact 5. Maintenance challenges

Front

What is the process of Open-Cycle OTEC?

Back

1. Warm seawater is pumped into a low-pressure chamber. 2. The seawater boils and produces steam. 3. The steam drives a turbine. 4. Cold deep seawater condenses the steam back into water.

Front

Why is it called 'Open-Cycle' OTEC?

Back

The working fluid is not contained in a closed loop; seawater is directly used and replaced after each cycle.