POSSIBLE OFFSHORE APPLICATION OF THERMOELECTRIC CONVERSION

Thermoelectric generators convert heat energy directly into electrical energy without moving parts. They are reliable, operate unattended in hostile surroundings, and are environmentally friendly. Decommissione d North Sea oil platforms will provide ready access to sources of geot hermal energy associated with the redundant oil reservoirs. In this pa per the nature of the heat source is discussed and the basic concepts of thermoelectric energy conversion outlined. The thermocouple materia ls best suited for operating at the relatively low temperatures associ ated with geothermal energy are identified and a possible thermoelectr ic conversion system is proposed. Finally, some conclusions are drawn regarding the commercial viability of this possible offshore applicati on of thermoelectric conversion.