Global OTEC

Global OTEC has designed a floating platform capable of converting solar heat energy stored in the oceans into renewable baseload power. Fossil fuels dominate across tropical islands, driving GHG emissions and socio-economic weaknesses. They lack the space - or resource - for conventional renewables such as solar, wind and hydro to provide baseload power. Their reliance on imported fuels creates volatility, trade imbalances, FX shortages and macroeconomic weakness. Small Island EEZs represent 30% of all ocean & seas; 28 times greater than their land space. Tropical oceans absorb the solar energy-equivalent to 170bn barrels of oil per day. This can be harnessed using a well-known thermodynamic cycle. The cycle uses the temperature difference between warm surface seawater and cold deep seawater to repeatedly evaporate and condense a working fluid. The vapour produced runs a turbine which produces electricity. GOR has designed the first cost-effective system to supply to a market with an urgent need for alternative renewables. The power plant is contained in an innovative floating system, capable of conveying the cold and warm water, whilst also maintaining stability in the marine environment.