Ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) is a method of producing energy from the sea.
Understanding OTEC
According to the provided information, Ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) is defined as another form of ocean-based energy production. It utilizes the natural temperature difference found in the ocean to generate power.
How OTEC Works
OTEC works by harnessing the temperature difference between the ocean's water layers:
- Warm Surface Water: Near the sun-warmed surface, the water is relatively warm.
- Cold Deep Water: At much deeper levels, the water is significantly colder.
This temperature difference is used to run a heat engine. The heat engine then drives a generator, which produces a clean source of energy. Essentially, the system exploits the thermal gradient within the ocean water column to create electricity.
