It
is a solar energy conversion system for producing electricity, using warm and
cold ocean layers to vaporize and condense a fluid that drives a turbine. it is
also known as Ocean thermal energy conversion (OETC). To
operate a sea solar power plant involves both a heat source and a heat sink.
Therefore, the 80 degrees F surface water in the tropical oceans serves as the
heat source and typically 3,000 feet below the surface is the heat sink or the
cold bottom water, which is 40 degrees F.
This
temperature difference or delta T is sufficient to operate vapor turbines,
which drive generators and produces electricity and fresh water as a byproduct.
This is the OTE concept.
Significance:
Unlike electrical generation from most other forms of renewable energy which
varies with weather and time of day, such as solar and wind energy, OTEC power
plants can produce electricity 24 hours per day, 365 days per year.
The
cold deep ocean water can be used for aqua-culture (fish farming) as it is
pathogen free and nutrient rich, or air-conditioning and refrigeration in
nearby buildings. It can produce electricity without giving off any CO2(carbon
di oxide) and do it for a long period.
SAGARSHAKTHI:
1st of its kind in the world, the OTEC plant commissioned by NIOT, Chennai in
the Goa shipyard. Now there is a plan to commission a plant in the offshore
coast of Tuticorin and also there is an experimental plant in Kavaratti Island
in India. This will affect the salinity and environment but least pollution
than coal.
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