A new ocean energy platform named Don has been installed off the coast of Gran Canaria, Spain, designed to withstand hurricane conditions while generating clean power, targeting vulnerable island nations. This initiative is part of the Horizon Europe-funded PLOTEC project, aimed at advancing ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) technology. Global OTEC states the platform not only proves the technology’s resilience but also opens avenues for reliable clean energy amidst climate extremes.
Developed by the clean-energy firm Global OTEC, the platform honors British engineer Don Lennard, a pioneer in OTEC. The innovative structure aims to provide uninterrupted electricity to island nations facing climate challenges, harnessing the temperature differences between warm surface waters and cold deep ocean waters. Despite the significant potential of OTEC in tropical areas, the challenge has always been the risk from storms. The installation of Don is a step forward in demonstrating that OTEC platforms can function safely through harsh weather, a crucial showcase as global climate events like COP30 and the Earthshot Prize 2025 approach.
Currently located at the Oceanic Platform of the Canary Islands (PLOCAN), the platform is undergoing extensive structural tests. The initial phase saw the placement of its cylindrical hull into the Atlantic, with plans to connect a cold-water pipe, essential for the thermal conversion process. This connection will also allow for testing the operational resilience of the platform in real ocean conditions. Engineers from Fugro, a prominent Geo-data solutions provider, equipped the platform with sensors to monitor its performance, ensuring accurate data collection for future improvements.
The insights gained from these tests will validate previous models and enhance the understanding of how large OTEC systems can interact with oceanic conditions. This data is also anticipated to inform future OTEC projects and support energy strategies in tropical island nations like Barbados, which still depend heavily on fossil fuels. With the potential to deliver sustainable baseload power, OTEC can leverage the ocean’s vast resources while promoting energy security and resilience in the face of climate change.