Potential Energy Transformation into Hydropower Driven by Existing Returned Sea Water at Offshore Island

Abstract The global transition to renewable energy is essential for addressing growing electricity demand, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and combating climate change. ADNOC is committed to this shift through its 2030 Sustainability Strategy, which aims to cut GHG emissions intensity by 25% by 2030, requiring innovative technologies and solutions to meet this goal. This project proposes constructing a hydroelectric plant on Zirku Island, utilizing the cooling water return channel to the sea. The approach is to install an in-line turbine within the cooling water return pipeline, driven by the flow of seawater, to generate electricity. The electricity produced will be fed into the grid to meet the island’s energy demand, simultaneously allowing more fuel gas to be redirected to downstream markets. The cooling water network services all consumers within the process plant and eventually returns water to the sea through a degassing tank, adhering to strict environmental standards. The existing system operates with a flow rate of 9,000 cubic meters per hour of treated seawater through a 48-inch pipe, maintaining a minimum pressure of 25 PSIG. Initial studies suggest that this setup could generate approximately 3,206 MWh of electric energy annually. The estimated project capital expenditure (CAPEX) is around 573,500 USD. Further detailed studies are underway to assess the most suitable turbine type and explore potential system modifications for enhancing efficiency. This paper presents a technical proposal that illustrates how waste energy can be converted into clean, renewable electricity, providing a reliable energy supply while supporting ADNOC’s sustainability goals and contributing to the UAE’s broader renewable energy objectives. Importantly, this innovative use of hydropower technology could serve as a model for other offshore oil and gas sites globally, demonstrating how wasted potential energy can be repurposed into green energy and inspiring similar initiatives.