Dr. Jitendra Singh Reviews Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion Project in Lakshadweep

The OTEC system uses the natural temperature gradient between warm surface seawater and cold water drawn from deep ocean layers to generate electricity.

Union Minister for Earth Sciences and Science & Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh on Friday reviewed the progress of India’s Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) project during a visit to Kavaratti in Lakshadweep, highlighting the government’s efforts to strengthen freshwater availability and renewable energy use in island territories.

The Minister inspected the ongoing work at the OTEC-based desalination facility, a project designed to convert seawater into potable drinking water by harnessing the temperature difference between warm surface water and cold deep-sea water to generate energy.

Ocean Energy to Power Desalination

The OTEC system uses the natural temperature gradient between warm surface seawater and cold water drawn from deep ocean layers to generate electricity. This energy is then used to power desalination systems that convert seawater into drinking water.

Officials said the technology could provide a stable and sustainable source of freshwater for Lakshadweep, which has long struggled with water scarcity due to limited groundwater resources, salinity intrusion, and heavy dependence on seasonal rainfall.

By integrating renewable ocean energy with desalination, the project aims to create a long-term solution for water security in remote island communities.

Minister Reviews Technical Progress

During the visit, Dr. Jitendra Singh reviewed the physical and technical progress of the plant, examining several key components of the project including:

• The seawater intake system

• The deep-sea cold-water pipeline

• The turbine-generator unit

• The desalination modules

He also interacted with scientists, engineers, and project personnel involved in the implementation of the project. Officials briefed him on project timelines, operational readiness, and environmental safeguards being adopted during the construction phase.

The minister was also informed about plans to develop an offshore OTEC demonstration project under India’s Deep Ocean Mission, which aims to expand the country’s capabilities in ocean-based energy technologies.

Engineering Challenges in Island Conditions

Project officials noted that implementing infrastructure projects in Lakshadweep involves significant technical and logistical challenges.

The seabed around the islands contains coral formations, rocky layers, and underwater trenches, making the installation of pipelines and marine structures complex. In addition, rough sea conditions and limited operational windows during the monsoon season restrict construction activity, requiring specialised engineering solutions and careful planning.

Despite these challenges, scientists said steady progress is being made toward completing the facility.

Renewable Energy Alternative to Diesel Systems

Once operational, the OTEC-based desalination system is expected to function as a continuous renewable energy source, unlike solar or wind power, which depend on weather conditions.

Officials said the project could significantly reduce reliance on diesel-powered desalination plants, which currently require costly fuel transportation to the islands.

By replacing diesel-based systems, the project is expected to cut fuel costs, reduce carbon emissions, and ensure uninterrupted freshwater supply for island residents.

India Joining Global OTEC Efforts

Globally, only a few countries—including Japan and the United States—have experimented with Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion technology.

With the commissioning of the Kavaratti OTEC project, India aims to join this group of nations exploring the commercial and developmental potential of ocean-based renewable energy.

Officials believe that the lessons learned from Lakshadweep could help replicate similar systems in other tropical island regions and coastal areas facing water stress.

Supporting Blue Economy and Climate Resilience

Dr. Jitendra Singh said island territories face unique challenges related to water availability, energy security, and climate vulnerability.

He noted that combining ocean-based renewable energy with desalination technologies could offer a sustainable pathway for development in such regions.

Officials said the project forms part of the government’s broader push to promote Blue Economy initiatives, strengthen climate resilience, and expand the use of marine technologies for sustainable infrastructure in India’s coastal and island territories.