Concentrating Solar Power to Be Used in Seawater Desalination within the Gulf Cooperation Council

Abstract

The research discussed in this paper is intended to shed some light on the potential that exists when concentrating technology of solar thermal energy for use in Gulf Cooperation Council Countries, or most commonly referred to as GCC. The research provides the opportunity to study the technologies related to the concentration of solar power technologies along with water desalination demands and fresh water availability, which in turn leads to the jeoparadization of water resources that are derived from the ground. Desalination plants that are solar powered, within the Gulf Cooperation Council countries comprise of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, UAE, and Bahrain. The study recognizes that a political structure is required for introducing the premier foundation of solar power and desalination as well as ensuring comprehension of the proposal.The study evaluates solar energy accessible resources and the costs of integrating this alternative energy source, desalination of water, long standing scenarios of integrating power production technologies into the water sectors, and quantifying the socio-economic and environmental impacts of this alternative energy notion.

Qatar and GCC water security

“…Dependence on DW is on the rise as shown in Fig. 12 [13]. Presently, 25% of Saudi oil and gas production is used locally to generate electricity and desalt seawater; and this fraction can reach 50% by 2030 [14].…”

Evaluation of Single Slop Solar Still Integrated With Evaporative Cooling System for Brackish Water Desalination

“…These countries, in general, also receive a greater amount of solar radiation. For example, the daily average solar radiation flux incident on Saudi Arabia is 5-8 kWh/m 2 (Al-Ansari, 2013).…”