Techno-Economic Optimization of a Solar–Wind Hybrid System to Power a Large-Scale Reverse Osmosis Desalination Plant

Abstract

Solar-wind hybrid systems have grown to become a pivotal option for powering membrane desalination processes, especially because they have zero harmful emissions. In this work, solar photovoltaic (PV) and horizontal wind turbine (HWT) systems were used to drive a reverse osmosis (RO) desalination process to produce large-capacity fresh water. Moreover, an investigation into a hybrid PV–HWT system combined with RO was also conducted. The proposed systems are compared technically and economically with the solar organic Rankine cycle (SORC) for RO. Technical and analytical optimization methods were performed to minimize the unit product cost (USD/m3). The results revealed that photovoltaic-powered RO is recommended over wind energy operations. However, for large capacities, both thermal and wind farms dominate.

Prioritizing the Best Potential Regions for Brine Concentration Systems in the USA Using GIS and Multicriteria Decision Analysis

“…On the other hand, RO module entropy generation is a direct function of the pressure drop through the membrane and the change in concentration during permeation . A larger operational pressure requires less pressure vessels in the RO module, decreasing the area and size . The GIS analysis assigns the closest cities to a centroid based on the nearest distance.…”

“…39 A larger operational pressure requires less pressure vessels in the RO module, decreasing the area and size. 65 The GIS analysis assigns the closest cities to a centroid based on the nearest distance.…”

Solar desalination: A review of recent developments in environmental, regulatory and economic issues

“…Esmaeilion et al, [52] concluded that for arid and semi-arid regions it was essential that all stakeholders including government, policymakers, the local community, and investors need to work together in establishing large-scale desalination plants powered by RE. Likewise, in a similar investigation Soliman et al, [53] compared several RE systems (i.e., PV and wind) for producing electricity for running a reverse osmosis unit.…”