The technology is called Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC).
It generates electricity by harnessing the temperature difference between sun-warmed surface water and the cold depths of the ocean.
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The system will be deployed at a marine energy testing site three kilometres off the coast of Gran Canaria.
Over the course of 12 months, scientists will monitor how the structure holds up in rough seas.
This can only be found in the tropics.
Island nations are heavily reliant on imported fossil fuels to meet their energy needs.
The PLOTEC team believes that OTEC offers a promising alternative.
While the startup is confident of its approach, its entering a field that is largely unproven.
Story bySion Geschwindt
Sion is a freelance science and technology reporter, specialising in climate and energy.
