Work

Sustainable Solar Desalination: Experimental Predictive Control with Integrated LCA and Techno-Economic Evaluation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study experimentally validates a solar-thermal desalination system equipped with predictive feedwater control guided by real-time solar forecasting. Unlike conventional systems that react to temperature changes, the proposed approach proactively adjusts feedwater flow in anticipation of solar variability. To assess environmental and financial sustainability, the study integrates this control logic with a full Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Techno-Economic Analysis (TEA). Field testing in a high-temperature, arid region demonstrated strong performance, achieving a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 1.80 kg CO2-eq/m3 and a Levelized Cost of Water (LCOW) of $0.88/m3. Environmental impacts were quantified using OpenLCA and ecoinvent datasets, covering climate change, acidification, and eutrophication categories. The TEA confirmed economic feasibility, reporting a positive Net Present Value (NPV) and an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) exceeding 11.5% over a 20-year lifespan. Sensitivity analysis showed that forecast precision and TES design strongly influence both environmental and economic outcomes. The integration of intelligent control with simplified thermal storage offers a scalable, cost-effective solution for off-grid freshwater production in solar-rich regions.

Source: Processes

DOI: 10.3390/pr13082364

Author: Mishal Alsehli

Institution: Taif University

Language: English

Topic: Solar-Powered Water Purification Methods

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Affordable and clean energy, Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896