ABS provides first approval in principle for floating renewable energy plant
Tidal or solar powerc an deliver constant output 24 hours a day. Class society ABS has issued its first Approval in Principle (AIP) for a new concept renewable energy design in which a moored spar uses ammonia in a closed-cycle process to produce electrical power for a commercial utility grid. Unlike wind, tidal or solar power the advanced design for this Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) system can deliver constant output 24 hours a day."This concept combines proven offshore principles with off-the-shelf power, technology and proprietary innovations, all assembled in a unique way," says Ian Simpson, ABS Director of Offshore Technology and Business Development, Americas Division. "The design application illustrates how ABS is able to use its novel concept approach and guidance to provide review of a concept within the framework of established safety standards."Developed by OTEC International (OTI) LLC of Baltimore, Maryland, the approach converts liquid ammonia into gas in a heat exchanger using warm ocean surface water. The ammonia gas then drives turbines that turn generators to produce electricity which is then exported through a submarine power cable to a land-based utility company. The ammonia is condensed back into a liquid phase using cold ocean water pumped from ...
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