Preliminary Design of a Platform Mounted Integrated OTEC System for NSF Diego Garcia

The work proposed for Phase II of this ONR SBIR effort is in support of a preliminary design of an OTEC system to supply base load electric power, potable water and chilled water air conditioning to NSF Diego Garcia, B.I.O.T. The objective of the preliminary design is to be the basis of a reliable project cost estimate. That cost estimate along with a long-term power-water-air conditioning purchase agreement with the U.S. Navy is expected to allow OCEES International, Inc. and its strategic partners to raise the funds needed for final design and construction of the project in Phase III. The basis for the preliminary design will include historical data and information as well as the results of a field investigation. The initial proposed design will include an integrated OTEC system situated on an offshore platform to be anchored off the west coast of Diego Garcia in an area which avoids damage to the living reef. The proposed power system will include a combination of the Kalina power cycle and an open cycle OTEC configuration designed to provide potable water at design capacities. Chilled water heat exchangers will also be designed on the platform to provide chill water air conditioning to the base client. The proposed design will include a cold water supply pipe and a discharge pipe to service the operating OTEC plant; as well as a fresh water product line, a power delivery cable and a chilled water supply line servicing and connected to existing base infrastructure.