Are energy from the upper layers of seawater renewable

How does the ocean generate energy?

Within and beneath the waves lie proven reserves of conventional, non-renewable energy stores, as well as the promise of clean, renewable power. Renewable power can be generated by the ocean’s mechanical energy – the physical movement of water in waves and tides, and by its thermal energy – the heat absorbed from sunlight shining on the sea.

Where is ocean thermal energy conversion possible?

Ocean thermal energy conversion can only be done effectively where the thermal gradient exceeds 20° Celsius within the upper 1,000 meters of the ocean. These conditions occur in most of Earth’s tropical waters. Nearly 100 countries, including the United States, are situated in the area where OTEC is possible.

Is ocean thermal energy a promising technology for sustainable desalination of seawater?

In contrast, the utilization of ocean thermal gradients in multiple-effect distillation allows seawater desalination systems to achieve impressively high UPR values, reaching up to 158. This underscores ocean thermal energy as a promising technology for achieving sustainable desalination of seawater.

Can Ocean Energy be used to generate electricity?

In the United States, ocean energy can be generated from waves, tides, and currents, as well as ocean temperature differences. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory estimates that if fully utilized, ocean energy resources in the U.S. could provide the equivalent of over half of the electricity that the country generated in 2019.

How much energy does ocean water absorb?

The ocean water absorbs almost 80% of the sun's energy and is recharged every day irrespective of the weather conditions. The OTEC systems are broadly classified as open cycle and closed cycle (IRENA report, 2014).

What are the benefits of ocean thermal energy conversion?

Ocean thermal energy conversion has a number of potential benefits aside from energy production. The deep ocean water discharged from the plants is cold and nutrient rich. It can be used for agriculture and aquaculture, and for air-conditioning and refrigeration.