Modeling Hybrid Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion System for Malaysia Landscape

The Hybrid Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (H-OTEC) system is an advanced version of the Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion system, which not only generates electricity by utilizing the Rankine cycle but also integrates a desalination process to produce clean water. Despite its potential, the adoption of H-OTEC in Malaysia has been limited by the lack of detailed models tailored to the country’s unique environmental and oceanographic conditions. This paper addresses this issue by developing and simulating an H-OTEC system specifically designed for Malaysia. The paper evaluates the system’s energy efficiency, net output, post-deep seawater output, and desalinated water production. Simulation results indicate an energy efficiency ranging from 61% to 73%, consistent with recent studies. The ideal conditions assumed in the Rankine cycle method contribute to the system’s high efficiency. The insights gained from this research provide a robust foundation for future developments and modeling in HOTEC technology, not only in Malaysia but also in other regions with similar oceanographic conditions. While verification with basic test cases has been performed using the proposed model based on the Rankine cycle, real-world validation remains pending due to the absence of a suitable H-OTEC system. The findings are expected to demonstrate the system's ability to produce clean energy, desalinated water, and post-deep seawater.