Sustainable Atmospheric Water Generation Systems as a Solution to Alleviate Clean Water Scarcity in Jordan’s Arid and Semiarid Terrain

Clean water scarcity in Jordan, particularly in its arid and semiarid regions, has reached critical levels, necessitating urgent sustainable solutions. This scarcity crisis is exacerbated by various factors such as population growth, climate change, and the influx of refugees. In response to this pressing issue, this study conducted an assessment of Jordan’s atmospheric water generation potential to investigate its feasibility. By implementing an atmospheric water generator (AWG) system, the study evaluated system efficiency, analyzed environmental factor correlations, and mapped Jordan’s potential for atmospheric water generation. The research systematically implemented an AWG system using vapor compression cycle (VCC) technology with R-22 refrigerant, powered by a photovoltaic (PV) system. Thorough data analysis was conducted, and an empirical model was developed through regression analysis to assess system performance and map potential water generation in Jordan. The results show that the AWG system produces 38.68 L/day at 1.94 kWh/L in humid conditions, 8.9 L/day at 2.8 kWh/L in drier conditions, and consumes 2.03 kWh/L on average. The map produced illustrates the varying potential for atmospheric water generation across Jordan, with values ranging from 1.75 to 3.12 kWh/L from north to south, reflecting the adaptability to diverse atmospheric conditions. These findings offer essential guidance for future research and implementation endeavors in Jordan, serving as a cornerstone for planning efficient water generation systems. The proposed AWG holds considerable promise as an adaptive solution for remote arid regions in Jordan that lack access to clean water. In areas such as Bedouin camps situated in arid landscapes and remote military outposts located in deserts or border regions, there is potential for these AWGs to provide consistent, sustainable, and clean water.