Ocean Energy & Management
Research Group
Ocean Wave Energy
Wave energy is a form of renewable energy derived from the surface motion of ocean waves, primarily driven by the wind. This energy is captured using devices such as point absorbers, oscillating water columns, attenuators, and overtopping devices, which convert the kinetic and potential energy of waves into electricity. Wave energy offers several benefits, including being highly predictable, having a high energy density, and producing minimal environmental impact. It can be used not only for electricity generation but also for desalination and water pumping. Despite the challenges of high initial costs and technical complexities, wave energy has significant potential to contribute to the global renewable energy supply.
Ocean Current Energy
Ocean current energy is a form of renewable energy harnessed from the continuous, predictable flow of ocean currents. These currents, driven by wind, tides, and differences in water density, offer a steady and reliable source of energy. Devices known as marine current turbines or underwater turbines are used to capture this energy. These turbines operate similarly to wind turbines but are placed underwater, where they are driven by the moving water. Ocean current energy is particularly advantageous due to its high predictability and consistency, providing a reliable source of power. It can be used for electricity generation and integrated with other renewable energy sources to enhance energy security and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Ocean Thermal Energy
Ocean Thermal Energy utilizes the temperature difference between warm surface water and cold deep water to generate electricity through Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC). This process involves using warm surface water to evaporate a low-boiling-point fluid, which then drives a turbine to produce electricity. Cold deep water is used to condense the vapor back into a liquid, allowing the cycle to repeat. OTE offers continuous, renewable power with minimal environmental impact and can also support desalination, aquaculture, and cooling applications. However, it faces challenges such as high initial costs and location-specific efficiency, mainly in tropical regions.
Salinity Gradient Energy
Ocean Salinity Gradient Energy harnesses the energy released from the difference in salt concentration between seawater and freshwater, employing methods like pressure retarded osmosis (PRO) and reverse electrodialysis (RED). PRO utilizes a semi-permeable membrane to induce osmotic pressure, driving a turbine for electricity generation, while RED uses ion exchange membranes to create an electric potential from ionic differences. This renewable energy source is particularly advantageous due to its sustainability, low environmental impact, and potential integration with desalination processes, though it faces challenges such as high initial costs and technological complexities, limiting widespread adoption.