In this work we present the hot surface ignition of turbulent diffusion oxygen-ethanol hydrothermal flames. For this purpose up to 520W electric are dissipated through a heating wire. The mean wire temperature and the electrical energy it releases at ignition are reported by measuring the voltage drop across its resistance. The wire temperatures - up to 385 degrees C - are compared to the auto-ignition temperatures reported in literature and the ignition map of our system is drawn. In case the reactants are injected at room temperature, the hot surface enables ignition for ethanol contents in the aqueous fuel stream above 30 wt.%. In the end, potential applications of the ignition system in the scope of supercritical water oxidation and hydrothermal spallation drilling are highlighted. (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier B.V.