Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) is a form of renewable solar energy that has the capability to provide 24 hour base load, dispatchable power to electrical systems. This is a major advantage over solar PV and wind, which are intermittent and can have significant adverse effects on grid stability once penetration exceeds 10% of grid capacity. This paper describes OTEC technology, suitable areas for implementation, current levels of technology development, regulatory barriers, problems posed by intermittent power generation as well as how it is differentiated from intermittent renewable technologies and can enhance grid stability. The discussion of the OTEC technology will include the underlying thermodynamics, critical heat transfer requirements and efficiency issues associated with low temperature Rankine Cycle applications. The discussion of suitable areas for implementation will include required ocean temperatures, ocean topography, current fuel dependence and regulatory issues to be addressed. The discussion of problems posed by intermittent power generation on networks will include transient response of grids to sudden changes in production as well as ramp rate requirements as solar PV comes on and off line on a daily cycle. OTEC, as a base load generation source, will be discussed in terms of market factors and reserve requirements.
Skip Nav Destination
ASME 2014 Power Conference
July 28–31, 2014
Baltimore, Maryland, USA
Conference Sponsors:
- Power Division
ISBN:
978-0-7918-4609-4
PROCEEDINGS PAPER
Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) as Base Load Renewable Power Available to Purchase
Laurence J. Shapiro
Laurence J. Shapiro
Burns and Roe Enterprises, Inc., Oradell, NJ
Search for other works by this author on:
Laurence J. Shapiro
Burns and Roe Enterprises, Inc., Oradell, NJ
Paper No:
POWER2014-32175, V002T09A017; 13 pages
Published Online:
November 19, 2014
Citation
Shapiro, LJ. "Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) as Base Load Renewable Power." Proceedings of the ASME 2014 Power Conference. Volume 2: Simple and Combined Cycles; Advanced Energy Systems and Renewables (Wind, Solar and Geothermal); Energy Water Nexus; Thermal Hydraulics and CFD; Nuclear Plant Design, Licensing and Construction; Performance Testing and Performance Test Codes; Student Paper Competition. Baltimore, Maryland, USA. July 28–31, 2014. V002T09A017. ASME. https://doi.org/10.1115/POWER2014-32175
Download citation file:
22
Views
Related Proceedings Papers
Related Articles
A New Integrated Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion-Based Trigeneration System for Sustainable Communities
J. Energy Resour. Technol (June,2020)
Design and Analysis of a Novel Integrated Wind-Solar-OTEC Energy System for Producing Hydrogen, Electricity, and Fresh Water
J. Sol. Energy Eng (December,2019)
1986 Max Jakob Memorial Award Lecture: Heat Transfer Research for Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion
J. Heat Transfer (February,1988)
Related Chapters
Combined Cycle Power Plant
Energy and Power Generation Handbook: Established and Emerging Technologies
Two Decades of Optimism
Air Engines: The History, Science, and Reality of the Perfect Engine
Hydro Tasmania — King Island Case Study
Energy and Power Generation Handbook: Established and Emerging Technologies