Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) takes a giant leap forward in the realm of marine renewable energy with the selection of its “outline study on installation of water intake pipes” for the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) program. This development marks a significant stride towards the practical implementation of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) in Mauritius.
MOL, under the Infrastructure Development Investigation Program for Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) for FY2023, is conducting a feasibility study on the Commercialization of OTEC in Mauritius. This initiative follows MOL’s active participation in the 100kW-class OTEC demonstration facility in Kumejima Town, Okinawa. The knowledge gained from this operation will be crucial in assessing OTEC’s commercial potential in Mauritius.
In a comprehensive “Study on the Conformity of Demonstration Requirements for the Combined Use of Deep Ocean Water with OTEC as the Core in Mauritius,” commissioned by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), MOL scrutinized the viability of Mauritius as the main development entity. They meticulously selected a site in the south-southwest area of Mauritius for further exploration.
The next phase involves a detailed investigation into various conditions for installing water intake pipes at the identified sites. METI’s selection of this project underscores its commitment to advancing marine renewable energy solutions.
OTEC, harnessing the temperature difference between warm surface water and cold deep-sea water, ensures stable power generation round the clock. Unaffected by weather conditions, it provides a reliable and predictable power output.
Mauritius, strategically positioned in the tropical Indian Ocean region, aims to achieve 60% renewable energy by 2030. This aligns with the pilot project for OTEC in their national budget plan. The project not only promises energy sustainability but also positions Mauritius for reliable support through the Climate Technology Centre & Network (CTCN) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
MOL envisions the early-stage commercialization of OTEC in both Japan and overseas, including Mauritius. Leveraging their accumulated knowledge and supply chain network, MOL is poised to revolutionize the maritime energy landscape.
