Osmotic energy is generated from the difference in salinity between seawater and fresh water. A semipermeable membrane is used to separate the fresh water from the sea water, and it moves by osmosis through the membrane. The osmotic pressure and the permeation flow rate turns a hydraulic turbine, creating energy. Large rivers in Canada have long-term potential for osmotic development. The Norwegian electricity company Statkraft built the first osmotic prototype power plant. Statkraft estimates that approximately 1,600TWh could be generated on a yearly basis.
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