Brazil’s Instituto Alberto Luiz Coimbra de Pós-Graduação e Pesquisa de Engenharia (COPPE/UFRJ) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UK-based Global OTEC to drive the development of renewable ocean thermal energy in the country.
Ocean Thermal Energy uses changes in the ocean’s temperature to create energy. Warm surface seawater is used to vaporize a working fluid, driving a turbine to produce energy, while cold deep-sea water condenses the fluid, creating a continuous cycle. As the ocean surface remains warm year-round, OTEC can provide 24/7 electricity, positioning it as a great sustainable energy option for countries located in the tropical area of the ocean.
The two-year partnership will focus on joint research projects, knowledge sharing, and developments to demonstrate the viability and advantages of OTEC technology in Brazil.
“This partnership represents an opportunity for cooperation between an innovative company and the university,” said Professor Joel Sena Sales Junior, Coordinator of the Waves and Currents Laboratory (LOC/COPPE/UFRJ). “It will allow for the exchange of knowledge and ideas regarding the challenges and solutions surrounding the floating OTEC plants project.”
Global OTEC is working on a project to design and test a storm-resistant floating platform for OTEC and has developed a self-contained skid that enables a lower-cost, modular approach for clean baseload power from the ocean, focused on powering offshore operations.
“This collaboration with COPPE/UFRJ marks a significant milestone for ocean thermal energy in Brazil,” said Dan Grech, Founder and CEO of Global OTEC. “Together, we aim to unlock the vast potential of OTEC, showcasing how the ocean can deliver clean, reliable power solutions while positioning Brazil at the forefront of this transformative innovation.”
