Investigating the long-term economic sustainability and water production costs of desalination plants: A case study from Chatt Hilal in Algeria

The aim of the investigation was to assess the long-term economic viability of Chatt Hillal desalination plant in Algeria, employing HOMER Pro simulation modeling to analyze projected trends in energy costs and production expenses over 25 years. The modeling results indicate a gradual increase in water production costs, from an initial $0.20/m 3 in 2021 to an estimated $0.33/m 3 by 2045. Comparing these results to other plants’ global results showed that the case study desalination plant appeared very cost-effective. The study emphasized the need for holistic approaches to enhance economic sustainability and underscored the need to maintain and adapt subsidy policies to ensure the sustained affordability and accessibility of desalinated water in the future.