Power potential from ocean currents for hydrogen production

The transport energy of world ocean currents is briefly surveyed. As a case study concentration has been made on the Florida currents between Miami, Florida and Bahamas. Over a region of 60 km × 10 km × 200 m power in the range of 22 to 37 GW is predicted to be produced at about a cost of 1.1¢ per kWh. The adverse features in the ocean environment have been briefly discussed and taken in due consideration. However, a word of caution is expressed that the estimation of power production and energy cost from the Florida Current, or for that matter, from any ocean current, should not be taken any more seriously than the uncertainty factors involved in fluctuations occurring in ocean currents. The amount of power extracted from the Florida Current is well within its fluctuation limits as observed and estimated over years. Thus the power extracted is no threat to the environment. The storage, transportation and end-use of this large amount of energy is argued in favor of hydrogen. The gaseous and liquid hydrogen are both recommended. The cost of hydrogen production is comparable to conventional fuel cost.