Utilização de sistemas de energias renováveis no processo de dessalinização da água

Abstract

This study presents the results of integrating renewable energy into a desalination system in the Planalto Norte region of Santo Antão, Cape Verde, where drought poses a critical problem affecting the well-being of the population, livestock, and forcing youth migration. The research addresses the shortage of drinking water in the area, caused by the semi-arid climate and the scarcity of natural water resources due to prolonged drought periods. Additionally, it aligns with renewable energies not only due to the lack of conventional electricity infrastructure but also to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The methodology includes an analysis of the climatic, geographic, and socioeconomic conditions of this island territory and an exploratory survey of existing technologies to design a renewable energy-powered desalination plant, such as solar energy. Document analysis indicates that using solar energy to power saline water treatment systems is viable and can be effectively implemented in Santo Antão. The analysis also concludes that solar photovoltaic (PV) powered reverse osmosis (RO) is the most promising option due to its low operational cost compared to traditional alternatives (still nonexistent in the region) and the favorable climatic conditions, with almost year-round sunshine. The results show that adopting desalination systems based on clean energy can not only resolve the water scarcity in Planalto Norte but also serve as a catalyst for the island’s energy transition, promoting sustainability and resilience of the region’s water infrastructure and serving as an example for other island regions facing similar challenges.