Criteria for Optimal Site Selection for Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) Plants in Mexico

Sustainable energy is needed globally, and Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) a possible way to diversify the matrix. This article suggests preliminary selection process find optimal sites for OTEC deployment on Mexican coastline. The method comprises (1) evaluation of thermal power potential, using daily data (16 years) sea surface temperature, percentage available time thresholds; (2) assessment feasibility decision matrix, fed by technical, environmental socioeconomic criteria; (3) identification four potential sites; (4) comparison competitiveness with other technologies through levelized cost energy. Multi-criteria analysis was applied select sites, technique ordering performance similarity ideal solution. best were Puerto Angel Cabo San Lucas; production > 50 MW persistence 40%. As yet there no evidence from operational plants that could alter criteria weightings. More in situ studies pilot should help determine their impact socio-economic consequences before any larger-scale projects are implemented.