In a positive development for the Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) industry, Global OTEC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Makai Ocean Engineering (Makai), under which Makai will supply its proprietary Thin Foil Heat Exchanger (TFHX) technology for integration into Global OTEC’s most recent solution, the OTEC Power Module®. This agreement reflects growing momentum toward technology commercialisation, bringing together Global OTEC’s modular and modern approach and Makai’s advanced TFHX to sustainably power the tropical area of the world.
Makai Ocean Engineering, based in Hawaii, has been a pioneer in OTEC research and development for over four decades, including the design, construction, and operation. This extensive experience highlighted both the technical and economic challenges of scaling OTEC systems, particularly the high capital costs driven by large, titanium heat exchangers. In response, Makai developed the TFHX to reduce system cost without sacrificing performance. The TFHX features compact geometries and corrosion-resistant materials that significantly lower the cost while maintaining high thermal efficiency, durability, and fouling resistance, making it purpose-built for the unique demands of OTEC.