(471b) Optimal Design of an Integrated Thermal Energy Conversion System for Sustainable Energy and Desalinated Water Production

The aim of this paper is to present a rigorous model for the optimal design of the open-cycle Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion system. The formulation allows the design and analysis of the system as energy and desalinated water distribution market. The operation of the system is subject to the maximum energy and water demand required by a given complex in a given geographical location. A supply and demand analysis of these products is carried out which considers a government incentive to strengthen the development and competitiveness of this system compared to other types of renewable energy. This economic incentive consists of carbon savings per kWh of energy and is also compared to oil-based electricity generation. Considering this approach, a cost analysis based on emissions generated is proposed to manage the operation policy of the system. The solution to the problem is to maximize social welfare by proposing a balance and a pricing policy based on supply and demand for the products derived from the operation of this thermal power cycle.