Ocean Energy Potential in Panama: An Assessment for Sustainable Energy Development

This research aims to evaluate the potential of ocean energy in Panama as an alternative for clean and sustainable electricity production through predictive and comparative analysis, considering the descriptive variables of each alternative concerning the oceanic conditions of Panama. This analysis focuses on wave energy, tidal energy, osmotic energy or salinity gradient energy, ocean thermal energy, and ocean current energy. First, the potential of each alternative was evaluated concerning Panama’s oceanic conditions. Then, the alternatives with the greatest potential were identified. As a result of this research, the energy potential of the five alternatives was categorized into high, moderate, and low, with ocean thermal energy and wave energy showing high energy potential. Subsequently, tidal energy and marine current energy showed moderate potential. Finally, osmotic energy or salinity gradient energy projected low potential due to the limited availability of freshwater bodies flowing into the seas. Additionally, it was justified that the development of technologies associated with these energy alternatives is experiencing significant and accelerated advancements that would benefit their implementation in Panama. This could significantly contribute to the diversification of the energy matrix in a sustainable manner, thus reducing dependence on fossil sources and minimizing environmental impact.