Applications of OTEC in addition to produce electricity
Electricity: Electrical energy is the primary product of OTEC plants.
- Hydrogen Production: Electricity from OTEC plants is used for electrolysis of water to produce hydrogen, a valuable energy source.
- Ammonia and Methanol Production: OTEC electricity can be utilized to synthesize ammonia and methanol, which are easily transportable and useful in various industrial applications.
- Desalinated Water: Open-cycle and hybrid OTEC systems can produce freshwater through desalination, which is essential for drinking, agriculture, and industry.
- Aquaculture: Cold, nutrient-rich deep-sea water supports fish farming, creating profitable aquaculture opportunities.
- Chilled Soil Agriculture: Cold deep-sea water can be circulated through underground pipes to cool the soil, allowing for enhanced agricultural productivity by maintaining an optimal temperature difference between the roots and leaves.
- Air Conditioning: The cold water from OTEC can be used as a coolant in air conditioning systems.
Fig: OTEC plant and applications