Renewable Energy-Driven Pumping Systems and Application for Desalination: A Review of Technologies and Future Directions

Desalination is a vital solution to global water scarcity, yet its substantial energy demand persists as a major challenge. As the core energy-consuming components, pumps are fundamental to both membrane and thermal desalination processes. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of renewable energy source (RES)-driven pumping systems for desalination, focusing on the integration of solar photovoltaic and wind technologies. It examines the operational principles and efficiency of key pump types, such as high-pressure feed pumps for reverse osmosis, and underscores the critical role of energy recovery devices (ERDs) in minimizing net energy consumption. Furthermore, the paper highlights the importance of advanced control and energy management systems (EMS) in mitigating the intermittency of renewable sources. It details essential control strategies, including maximum power point tracking (MPPT), motor drive control, and supervisory EMS, that optimize the synergy between pumps, ERDs, and variable power inputs. By synthesizing current technologies and control methodologies, this review aims to identify pathways for designing more resilient, energy-efficient, and cost-effective desalination plants, supporting a sustainable water future.