Ocean Thermal Energy Corporation (OTE Corp) has been awarded a $3.5 million contract by Johnson Controls to pioneer a renewable energy system for the U.S. Army Garrison located at Kwajalein Atoll. This project is set to introduce a 17.5MW Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) system, leveraging the natural temperature differences in ocean water to produce clean, uninterrupted power and desalinated water. This initiative not only underscores a leap forward in sustainable energy technologies for military use but also highlights the potential for OTEC systems to address critical energy and water needs in isolated locations.
In collaboration with DCO Energy, OTE Corp will undertake a detailed system design process, encompassing project load analysis, conceptual engineering, and cost estimation. This effort is informed by prior successes, including a seawater cooling system for a Bahamian resort and a conceptual design for a 7.5 MW OTEC system for Bahamas Power and Light. The project's goals are multifaceted, aiming to confirm the viability of OTEC systems for remote military bases, showcase their reliability and scalability, and work closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to tailor the system to the garrison's specific needs.
An integral aspect of the project is the exploration of seawater desalination capabilities, offering a comprehensive solution to the dual challenges of energy and water scarcity at Kwajalein Atoll. Jeremy P. Feakins, Chairman and CEO of OTE Corp, highlighted the project's importance, stating that the collaboration with Johnson Controls exemplifies the transformative potential of OTEC technology in bolstering operational resilience and incorporating renewable energy into defense strategies. This initiative is a pivotal move towards diminishing military installations' reliance on imported fossil fuels, providing a sustainable and dependable energy alternative in geographically demanding environments.
