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Experimental investigation on thermodynamic and environmental performance of a novel ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC)-Air conditioning (AC) system

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  • Zhou, Yibo
  • Gao, Wenzhong
  • Zhang, Yuan
  • Tian, Zhen
  • Wang, Fei
  • Gao, Runbo

Abstract

In the field of isolated island energy supply, the OTEC system is considered promising due to its large storage capacity, and pollution-free characteristics. To improve energy efficiency, polygeneration systems have gradually become a research hotspot for their low cost and high return features. In this context, a novel Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion system integrated with an air conditioning unit (OTEC-AC) is introduced, demonstrating capabilities in electricity, cooling capacity, and fresh water production by experiments. The effects of various flow rates and temperatures of the heat and cold sources, along with the air-conditioning system water flow rate on the system performance is explored. Besides, the overall performance of the OTEC-AC is compared with four representative OTEC models. The results indicate that there is a threshold for the influence of cold and heat source flow rate on the performance of power generation system. The OTEC-AC system shows a highest net power of 132.6 W, cooling capacity of 2.14 kW, condensate production of 3.24 kg/h, and achieves a system exergy efficiency and CO2 reduction of 34.7 % and 5801 kg/year, respectively. The annual CO2 reduction per kilowatt of installed capacity of the system is increased by 135.6 %, compared with the conventional OTEC system.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhou, Yibo & Gao, Wenzhong & Zhang, Yuan & Tian, Zhen & Wang, Fei & Gao, Runbo, 2024. "Experimental investigation on thermodynamic and environmental performance of a novel ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC)-Air conditioning (AC) system," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 313(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:313:y:2024:i:c:s0360544224035382
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2024.133760
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    References listed on IDEAS

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