Osmotic power potential in remote regions of Quebec

Diesel-generated electricity is currently used to supply electricity to community micro-grids in remote regions of Quebec. Given its high cost and environmental impact there is interest in developing renewable energy alternatives for such applications. The potential of pressure retarded osmotic (PRO) power to supply remote community loads is investigated here. A mathematical model for PRO power systems is described and the effects of concentration polarization, spatial variation, pressure losses and system inefficiencies are reviewed. The model is used to simulate the PRO power potential of 10 selected rivers given there variations in temperature, concentration and flow rate throughout the year. Power potential is compared to electricity loads of nearby communities. In each case, only a small percentage of the river's lowest monthly flow rate would be required to satisfy the peak power demand of the micro-grids. This suggests that osmotic power could serve as a reliable source of electricity in such applications.