Management strategies for efficient energy production of brackish water desalination ensuring reliability, cost reduction, and sustainability

Desalination technologies rely heavily on energy efficiency to succeed and last. This research assesses the energy efficiency and economic feasibility of the Hashemite University Photo Voltaic Brackish Water Reverse Osmosis (HU PV-BWRO) desalination plant at HU. An in-depth evaluation and audit were conducted to find ways to save energy and incorporate them into the plant's operations. Portable energy analyzers and loggers measured energy consumption, while a regression model determined potential energy savings. The model compared actual plant consumption with expected baseline consumption to evaluate improvements. Field measurements served as references for future monitoring and evaluation. The study found the plant’s Specific Energy Consumption (SEC) to be 0.63 kWh/m³, achieving 48 % greater efficiency than estimated benchmarks. As the plant was already operating efficiently, no immediate conservation measures were implemented; however, the measured data provides a baseline for future enhancements. Challenges included low raw water quality and limited operational hours outside peak solar periods. Renewable energy integration and recovery strategies, such as hydropower micro-turbines, were identified as potential improvements for sustainable and cost-effective operations. The feasibility analysis showed a fast payback period of 1.1 years and significant Green House Gas (GHG) reductions, with an estimated 1,290,000 kg CO₂ avoided during the plant’s lifetime. These results highlight the successful integration of solar energy in desalination, demonstrating its potential to enhance energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and contribute to sustainable water solutions in regions with abundant solar resources. • Discussing energy efficiency strategies and their role in enhancing sustainable water desalination processes. • Evaluating potential benefits of utilizing solar energy technologies within water desalination systems. • Providing detailed scenarios and practical approaches for optimized energy management. • Investigating greenhouse gas emission mitigation achieved through renewable energy integration. • Analyzing the impact of emerging energy sources and incentive frameworks in stimulating investments.