Union Minister for Earth Sciences and Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh reviewed progress on an Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) project during a visit to Kavaratti in Lakshadweep as the government seeks to strengthen freshwater supply and renewable energy in island territories. The project converts the temperature difference between warm surface water and cold deep sea water into energy to run desalination systems and produce potable water for the island community. Officials briefed the minister on technical progress, commissioning timelines and environmental safeguards.

During the inspection the minister examined the seawater intake, the deep sea cold water pipeline, the turbine generator unit and the desalination modules and engaged with scientists, engineers and project personnel. Officials said the OTEC system is intended to function as a continuous renewable energy source and could reduce reliance on diesel desalination units while lowering fuel transportation costs and emissions. The technology was described as more consistent than solar or wind because it does not depend on short term weather.

Project officials explained that development is constrained by seabed conditions such as coral formations, rocky strata and trenches, and that operations are limited by narrow windows during monsoon months and rough sea conditions. They said these logistical and engineering challenges require specialised design and careful planning to protect the marine environment while maintaining timelines. Plans were outlined for an offshore demonstration under the Deep Ocean Mission to test deployment modalities.

Officials said the Kavaratti plant would help address long standing freshwater challenges caused by limited groundwater, salinity intrusion and dependence on seasonal rainfall and that the initiative forms part of the Blue Economy framework to strengthen infrastructure, energy security and climate resilience in island territories. With commissioning of the plant India aims to join other countries operating OTEC facilities and to explore the technology's potential for other tropical island regions and coastal areas. The effort was positioned as a step towards self reliant clean sources and sustained improvement in ease of living for island communities.