Global OTEC has deployed its storm-resistant floating platform, marking a step in developing ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) technology.
According to Global OTEC, the cylindric hull, named Don and built under the EU-funded PLOTEC project, was launched from Hidramar Shipyards into Atlantic waters for testing.
The next phase involves towing the structure to the Oceanic Platform of the Canary Islands (PLOCAN) for testing. Once at the site, assembly of a cold-water intake pipe and a proprietary connection system will commence, Global OTEC said.
This platform is designed to withstand storm-prone environments, a critical challenge for OTEC’s commercialization. Global OTEC’s ongoing efforts aim to demonstrate the viability of this renewable energy technology in challenging marine conditions.
Lifting the cylindric hull into the ocean
Global OTEC’s consortium entered the final stages of the storm-resistant hull construction for the OTEC prototype in September at Hidramar Shipyard, Gran Canaria, setting the stage for Atlantic Ocean testing.
Further updates on testing and installation progress are expected in the coming months.
Horizon Europe and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) awarded €3.5 million for the project in December 2022. The EU-backed project, which began fabrication in March , is dedicated to supporting the renewable energy transition in small island developing states (SIDS) that are known for severe weather conditions.
The PLOTEC consortium includes Global OTEC (UK), Cleantech Engineering (UK), WavEC Offshore Renewables (Portugal), The Oceanic Platform of the Canary Islands PLOCAN (Spain), Quality Culture (Italy), Agru Kunststofftechnik Gesellschaft (Austria) and University of Plymouth School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics (UK).
Just recently, Global OTEC launched its latest solution, which uses OTEC for the provision of sustainable power to offshore operations, including platforms and wells.