Assuming the ocean thermal plant can achieve the very preliminary estimates of cost, schedule and reliability goals set by ERDA, a TRW study shown in Figure XIA-6 compares the energy production cost of several conventional plants and an ocean thermal plant, all used for base load operation. Based on 1975 dollars, 13 percent investment index, 5 percent escalation and a 30-year plant life, it can be seen that the ocean thermal system is competative with the coal-steam and light water reactors by 1990. The high capacity factor (0.85) assigned the ocean thermal points out the expected high utilization of the system. Obviously, the major advantage of any solar energy system is its utilization of a free, nondepletable source of energy. Some major advantages and disadvantages of the ocean thermal system compared to the solar terrestrial systems are listed below: a. Advantages 1. Not dependent on daylight hours 2. Many locations provide minimum seasonal effects 3. Locations do not require land investments 4. No pollution b. Disadvantages 1. Large depths for workable temperature differences 2. Large equipment sizes 3. Off-shore construction handicap 4. Transmission distances significant 5. Location and operation may be under maritime law jurisdiction
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