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Sea Power: India's New Tech Turns Ocean into Energy and Water
10 Mar
Summary
- Unique facility generates electricity and drinking water from the sea.
- Low Temperature Thermal Desalination plants are installed across eight islands.
- Integrated system is a world-first for producing power and water.
India is developing a groundbreaking integrated facility in Lakshadweep that harnesses the ocean's potential to produce both electricity and freshwater. This innovative project marks the world's first system of its kind, utilizing advanced ocean technologies. The initiative builds upon existing Low Temperature Thermal Desalination plants, which have already been established on eight of the islands, with plans for two more.
The new approach combines desalination with Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion. This process leverages the temperature difference between warm surface seawater and cold deep-sea water to generate power and simultaneously produce potable water. Previously, electricity in Lakshadweep relied heavily on expensive and environmentally impactful diesel imports.
This development is a significant step towards self-sufficiency for the islands, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and strengthening water security. The project aligns with India's broader vision for island development and the Blue Economy, aiming to boost tourism and economic activity by ensuring essential infrastructure is available.
