Pumping Power Dependence of OTEC Systems

Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) systems use seawater pipes to harness the natural temperature difference between the surface water and the deep seawater mainly for electricity generation; they also have the potential tof generate by-products. The temperature of seawater fluctuates according to the geographical location but also depends on factors such as ocean depth and proximity to the coastline. This paper examines several scenarios for the pumping power affected by various factors related to the cold-water pipe and the warm-water pipe. A parametric analysis is performed on factors such as the size of the cold-water pipe, the mass flow rate, and the distance from shore. The results could potentially be used to identify the positioning of an OTEC systems, in terms of onshore or offshore placement.