Global OTEC and COPPE/UFRJ Partner to Advance OTEC Technology in Brazil
Global OTEC and Brazil’s COPPE/UFRJ have recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on advancing ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) technology in Brazil.
The two-year partnership aims to focus on joint research projects, knowledge exchange, and technological developments to explore the feasibility and benefits of OTEC technology in the country. Key objectives include demonstrating the viability of floating OTEC platforms and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change through sustainable energy innovations.
Joel Sena Sales Junior, Coordinator of the Waves and Currents Laboratory (LOC/COPPE/UFRJ), expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating: “This collaboration represents an opportunity for cooperation between an innovative company and the university. It will allow for the exchange of knowledge and ideas regarding the challenges and solutions surrounding the floating OTEC plants project.”
Global OTEC, known for developing storm-resistant floating platforms and modular solutions for clean power generation, has introduced its OTEC Power Module, a proprietary self-contained skid that offers a cost-effective approach to harnessing baseload power from ocean thermal gradients.
“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.”
Recent Developments
In November 2024, Global OTEC deployed its storm-resistant floating platform, named Don, into Atlantic waters for testing, marking a significant step in developing its OTEC technology. The platform was built under the EU-funded PLOTEC project.
In December 2024, Dutch geo-data specialist Fugro secured a role in the EU-backed PLOTEC project, providing sensor technology to support the advancement of OTEC technology in storm-prone regions.