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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.

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Q: What is Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion - OTEC?
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Ocean thermal energy conversion OTEC is a process that uses heat engines to convert differences in ocean water temperature into energy?

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What are the ocean thermal energy advantages and disadvantages?

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What are the advantages and disadvantages of the thermal energy?

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