Sustainable seascapes: An in-depth analysis of multigeneration plants utilizing supercritical zero liquid discharge desalination and a combined cycle power plant

Water scarcity, energy demand, and food security are interconnected global challenges that necessitate integrated solutions within the water-food-energy nexus. This study proposes a novel Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) multigeneration plant that integrates supercritical desalination with a combined steam-gas power cycle to address these challenges holistically. Unlike conventional systems, this innovative configuration simultaneously produces freshwater, electricity, and dry salt, fostering sustainable resource management and minimal environmental impact. The research addresses a critical gap by investigating supercritical desalination under extreme operating conditions within multigeneration systems, utilizing Aspen HYSYS software for advanced process simulation and optimization. The system demonstrates optimal performance at a seawater feed pressure of 330 bar and a supercritical steam temperature of 500 °C, with the gas turbine power plant operating at a pressure ratio of 20. Sensitivity analysis reveals remarkable outputs, yielding an annual freshwater production of 1.65 million m 3 at a levelized cost of 0.38 $/m 3 , electricity generation of 839.2 GWh at 0.058 $/kWh, and dry salt production of 64,845 tons at 0.02 $/kg. These results underscore the system’s potential to support the water-food-energy nexus while achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 6, “Clean Water and Sanitation,” SDG 7, “Affordable and Clean Energy,” SDG 9, “Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure,” and SDG 12, “Responsible Consumption and Production.” By demonstrating the feasibility and sustainability of integrating advanced supercritical desalination within a multigeneration framework, this study establishes a solid foundation for future research and real-world applications aimed at addressing critical global challenges. • A ZLD multigeneration plant integrates supercritical desalination with power generation. • Thermodynamic modeling using HYSYS enhances process efficiency and performance. • High efficiency of 46.7 % is achieved with substantial freshwater and power outputs. • Supporting SDGs 6, 7, 9, and 12 by addressing sustainable water-energy solutions.