Desalination Strategies for Energy Optimization and Renewable Energy Use

Abstract

AbstractEnergy is often the most significant factor in determining the affordability and sustainability of reverse osmosis (RO) membrane facilities. More than 33 percent of the cost to produce water with RO technology is attributed to electrical demands. High-pressure pumps are the largest energy-consuming component of treatment. Renewable energy is being increasingly considered for desalination projects. Selecting the appropriate renewable energy resource depends on several factors, including plant size, feedwater salinity, remoteness, availability of grid electricity, and technical infrastructure, as well as the type and potential of local renewable energy resource. To help utilities meet an increasing need for desalination and water reuse facilities, authors of a recent study queried utilities around the world about their practices and energy and minimization strategies. This article summarizes that effort, as well as selected aspects of energy minimization and renewable energy.