Global OTEC Partners with Makai Ocean Engineering for OTEC Power Module System
UK-based Global OTEC has recently announced a significant partnership with Hawaii-based Makai Ocean Engineering by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to incorporate Makai’s thin foil heat exchanger (TFHX) technology into Global OTEC’s OTEC Power Module system.
Global OTEC’s modular offshore unit is specifically designed to harness ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) for generating baseload electricity in tropical regions. By integrating Makai’s TFHX system, Global OTEC aims to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of its OTEC installations.
Makai Ocean Engineering brings over 40 years of experience in OTEC research and development, having worked on the design and operation of one of the world’s only grid-connected OTEC demonstration plants. The TFHX technology was developed to address the high capital costs associated with traditional OTEC systems, offering a more compact, durable, and cost-efficient alternative.
“TFHX was designed to perform in demanding marine environments where reliability, compactness, and durability are key,” stated Greg Rocheleau, CEO of Makai Ocean Engineering, expressing confidence in the technology’s potential to advance the OTEC industry towards commercial viability.
Global OTEC’s floating module is scalable up to 500 kW per unit, providing clean baseload electricity year-round. The company’s innovative approach focuses on reducing the size and cost of OTEC installations through modularization and strategic component sourcing.
“This agreement combines decades of innovation in ocean thermal technology with a modern, modular vision for deployment. Our goal is to create a scalable path to offshore OTEC, and integrating proven technologies like the TFHX strengthens that effort,” remarked Dan Grech, Founder and CEO of Global OTEC.
Earlier this year, the Barbados Investment & Development Corporation (BIDC) also partnered with Global OTEC through an MoU to collaborate on deploying OTEC systems in Barbados, further demonstrating the growing interest and potential for OTEC technology in the renewable energy sector.