Feasibility Study Of A 100mw Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (otec) Hybrid Cycle Plant In South East Queensland, Australia
Abstract
In tropical areas there exists a constant temperature gradient of about 20°C between warm surface seawater and cold deep water. This temperature difference can be utilised in a heat engine to generate electricity; a process the subject of considerable research known as Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC). This paper investigates the feasibility of a hybrid cycle OTEC plant which produces electricity, fresh water and has the potential to sequester Carbon Dioxide (CO2) using algae, in the context of South East Queensland (SEQ), Australia. Included is an assessment of the limitations and capacity of the technology, the possible environmental impacts, and the economic parameters that make the project viable. It was found that based on current estimates of costs, the proposed 100 MW plant would be viable as a fresh water producer alone. This assumes intake pipes can be constructed, which are of a larger scale than is currently available. The potential for algae to sequester CO2 and produce biofuel was shown to be substantial, although too expensive based on current production rates and costs.
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Citation
Martin, P. (2010). Feasibility Study Of A 100mw Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (otec) Hybrid Cycle Plant In South East Queensland, Australia (Unpublished report). University of Calgary, Calgary, AB.