Plant siting and economic potential of ocean thermal energy conversion in Indonesia a novel GIS-based methodology

Indonesia strives for a renewable energy share of 23% by 2025. One option to contribute this goal is Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC). Despite global theoretical potential up 30 TW, its economically deployable remains unknown. This paper proposes novel methodology, which enables determine OTEC’s economic any regional scope considering technical, and natural variables. The methodology was tested 100 MWe OTEC in on provincial national level. Against regionally variable electricity tariff 6.67–18.14 US$ct.(2018)/kWh, the 0–2 GWe with Levelized Cost Electricity (LCOE) as low 15.6 US$ct.(2018)/kWh. With an annual production 0–16 TWh, could provide 6% Indonesia’s demand 2018. capacity factor, capital expenses discount rate are most sensitive variables LCOE average. A nationally uniform feed-in 18 US$ct.(2018)/kWh or more increase significantly. proposed can be helpful quick-scan tool determining interesting sites follow-up in-depth feasibility studies. Limitations discussed future research, amongst others upscaling scenarios cost reducing effects like technological learning, recommended.