～Contributing to a Sustainable Future for Pacific Island Countries through Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) and Deep Ocean Water Utilization～

The 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (PIFLM) was held in Palau from August 30 to September 4, 2026, under the theme “Building Economies: Livelihoods.” Professor Ikegami and Associate Professor Morisaki from the Institute of Ocean Energy, Saga University, participated in a side event during the meeting.

【Purpose and Background】
We conducted technical exhibitions and promotional activities focused on Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) and the utilization of deep ocean water.

Distinguished visitors to the exhibition included:

• Horii, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan
• H.E. Surangel S. Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau
• Government officials and representatives from Pacific Island countries and international organization

Exhibition highlights:

• A scale model illustrating the principles and operation of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC)
• Exhibits demonstrating the cascading utilization of deep ocean water for agriculture, aquaculture, and cooling applications

【Activities and Highlights】

During the event, the OTEC exhibition booth welcomed distinguished visitors, including Horii, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan; H.E. President Whipps of the Republic of Palau; and ministers and senior government officials from various countries.

Visitors learned about recent advances in OTEC technology and the potential benefits of deploying OTEC systems in Palau. The exhibition also provided an opportunity for constructive discussions on future demonstration projects and the wider deployment of OTEC and deep ocean water utilization technologies.

【Expected Outcomes and Future Prospects】

Pacific Island nations are heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels and face challenges such as climate change and water scarcity.

Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) holds promise as a source of clean energy capable of providing a stable power supply, day and night. Furthermore, the “Kumejima Model”—which utilizes deep-sea water—after it has been used for power generation—for applications in agriculture, aquaculture, air conditioning, and desalination—offers a way to simultaneously address water and food security issues.

Saga University is collaborating with JICA and various companies specializing in OTEC and deep-sea water technologies to accelerate efforts toward the full-scale introduction and local implementation of the “Kumejima Model” in Pacific Island nations, starting with Palau.

【Contact Information】
Institute of Ocean Energy, Saga University (IOES)
Takafumi Morisaki
E-mail：morisaki（at）ioes.saga-u.ac.jp
URL:https://www.ioes.saga-u.ac.jp/
TEL:0952-28-8624
FAX:0952-28-8595