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Design, construction and sea trials of the 20 kW ocean thermal energy conversion in the South China Sea

Author

Listed:
  • Ou, Fenlan
  • Ning, Bo
  • Li, Jing
  • Tian, Yingying
  • Qiu, Dezhi
  • Geng, Lantao
  • Jin, Xuemei

Abstract

The 20 kW ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) has successfully conducted sea trials in the South China Sea, verifying the technical feasibility of this independently developed system. By constructing a theoretical system of OTEC and comprehensive utilization suitable for the conditions of the South China Sea, the advantageous sea areas for the development of advantageous thermal energy resources are determined. By developing long-distance insulated cold seawater pipes and supporting devices for sea trials, the safe deployment of cold seawater pipes was successfully achieved, and the temperature of the extracted cold water met the operational requirements of the OTEC. During the test period, the actual maximum power generation was 16.4 kW, the cumulative power generation was 57.74 kWh, and the input power grid system was 10.24 kWh. It has effectively promoted the development and utilization of OTEC in China from land test to offshore engineering application. It not only proves that the principle of self-developed OTEC is feasible, but also realizes the practical verification of power generation utilization, marking a monumental stride in our sustainable energy journey.

Suggested Citation

  • Ou, Fenlan & Ning, Bo & Li, Jing & Tian, Yingying & Qiu, Dezhi & Geng, Lantao & Jin, Xuemei, 2026. "Design, construction and sea trials of the 20 kW ocean thermal energy conversion in the South China Sea," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 342(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:342:y:2026:i:c:s0360544225052831
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.139641
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    References listed on IDEAS

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