Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) uses the difference in temperature between surface seawater and deep down seawater to generate electricity. It is a clean, renewable energy source that has the potential to free many economies from their dependence on oil.
How a closed system works:
How an open system works:
How a hybrid system works:
There are pilot plants running in Hawaii and many other places round the world. As the price of fossil fuel rises this technology becomes more and more attractive and economical. A lot of energy is used in these processes so the most suitable places need to:
mechanical
The major source of energy on Earth from the sun is solar radiation. Solar radiation is the energy transmitted from the sun in the form of electromagnetic waves, including visible light, ultraviolet light, and infrared radiation. This energy is essential for life on Earth as it drives processes such as photosynthesis and regulates the planet's climate.
Yes, the difference in ocean pressures can be used to generate energy through a technology called ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC). OTEC takes advantage of the temperature difference between warm surface water and cold deep water to drive a power cycle that can produce electricity.
David L. Thomas has written: 'A review of water intake screening options for coastal water users with recommendations for ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) plants David L. Thomas, Ichtyological Associates, inc' -- subject(s): Ocean thermal power plants
Some disadvantages of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) include high initial costs for infrastructure development, limited geographic applicability due to specific temperature requirements, and potential environmental impacts on marine ecosystems. Additionally, OTEC systems can be complex to design and operate, leading to reliability and efficiency challenges.
Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) takes advantage of the difference in temperature between surface seawater and deep down seawater to generate electricity.In a closed system, a liquid like ammonia, with a low boiling point, is made to boil using warm surface water. The gas released drives electricity generators. Cold deep water is then used to cool the gas back to liquid form, and the process begins again.In an open system, warm sea water is pumped into a partial vacuum, where it immediately boils. The steam is used to drive generators, or to heat ammonia to drive generators. Cold deep water is again used for cooling and the process cycles on. One advantage of the open system is that it produces desalinated (fresh) water that can be used for drinking or irrigation.Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion is a clean, renewable energy source that has the potential to provide pollution-free electricity.To see how the OTEC cycle works, and also see where it's gaining more attention around the world visit The On Project at the link below.
Mark Bushnell has written: 'Ocean optical data from potential OTEC sites in the Gulf of Mexico' -- subject(s): Optical oceanography, Ocean thermal power plants 'It happened in Vermont' -- subject(s): History, Anecdotes
James F Jenkins has written: 'Corrosion and biofouling of OTEC system surfaces' -- subject(s): Ocean thermal power plants, Seawater corrosion, Design and construction
OTEC (Ocean Thermal Energy Generation) works under the principle of differential temperature of the ocean in its latitude by the solar heating of the oceans on the surface (250C & more)and depth (500-100 feet at 00C). Thermal gradient temperature upto 220 C and higher can be exploited The energy is derived by the heat loss in the cooling water when warm water vaporises ammonia to steam to drive the turbine to generate electricity. An effeciency of 6.7%- 7% can yield 32 mega watts power.
Any alternative to fossil fuel,wind power,solar power,hydro power,ocean power(OTEC,wave,tidal),bio fuel,urine power,free energy,and many more
The typical thermodynamic efficiency of an OTEC (Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion) installation running between surface water at 22°C and deep water at 14°C is around 3-5%. This efficiency can vary depending on design specifics and operating conditions.
Ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) uses warm surface water to produce steam (using either ammonia or a vacuum) to generate electricity. Cooler deep water then cools the system and the cycle continues. Enough electricity is produced to drive the pumps and the excess is exported to the grid.Advantages:Generates electricity with no greenhouse emissions.Totally renewable energy.Works day and night with only routine pump maintenance and little ongoing costs.Open system version produces desalinated water as well.Unlimited source of free energy especially in tropical waters.Disadvantages:(are few)Needs a large difference in temperatures (surface and deep) for best results.Needs to be close to the national grid.Needs a constant supply of warm and cold water, so only suitable for tropical locations.Plant needs safe location from storms and surf.