Performance analysis of a hybrid offshore floating wind, solar and thermocline energy system

Abstract

The Offshore Wind and Thermocline Energy Production (OWTEP) concept has been proposed as a means of reducing the cost of offshore wind energy by simultaneously exploiting the cooling properties of deep seawater (DSW). The aim of this paper is to investigate the effectiveness of incorporating a number of solar panels into the OWTEP system to increase the flow of DSW, especially during the summer period. A detailed mathematical model was developed for the Offshore Wind, Solar and Thermocline Energy Production (OWSTEP) system. The system was modelled using MATLAB®. A parametric analysis was carried out to investigate the effect of key parameters on the OWSTEP system’s performance. The system was also operated using data for the Central Mediterranean region to assess its feasibility. The OWTEP and OWSTEP concepts were compared and the latter was found to generate substantially higher electrical power and improved COPs.