Full scale osmotic power generation from geothermal wells

The aim of this project is to demonstrate the technology, pressure retarded osmosis (PRO), applied at geothermal plants in large scale.

The technology is based on the novel idea of harnessing the free energy released when waters of different salinity are mixed. It has long been known that mixing freshwater and seawater releases energy – the challenge has been how to commercially utilize the energy potential. We do this by coupling the PRO process to geothermal heat production based on concentrated saltwater from the subsurface.

SaltPower has developed the concept since 2014 in collaboration with Aalborg University and Danfoss, which has resulted in a small scale PRO unit for at the geothermal heating plant at Sønderborg Fjernvarme. When SaltPower is used in conjunction with geothermal heating plants it produces electricity at a fraction of the cost compared to any other sustainable energy source.

The current project aims to demonstrate continuous operation for at three different locations in full scale, as well as to develop key components (membranes, pressure exchanger, control system) for continuous, industrial use. Project results are disseminated through traditional channels (website, conferences, papers), as well as through exhibitions at for a wider audience.