A Saudi engineer presented research on the use of alternative energy in seawater desalination that could save billions of dollars for countries. A global magazine specialized in renewable energy programs published this research, which showcases an innovation in the field of desalination by utilizing alternative energy (geothermal energy) to reduce the costs associated with water purification in arid countries, particularly in Saudi Arabia. The goal is to achieve water security and sustainability.
The core idea of the innovation is to harness clean geothermal energy to heat saline water, convert it into steam, and then condense it through special condensation chambers to obtain potable water, according to Al-Riyadh newspaper. Engineer Abdullah bin Mujaib Al-Mutairi explained that his research, published in ELSEVIER-Cleaner Engineering and Technology, relies on harnessing geothermal energy, which has substantial thermal energy available around the clock. He pointed out that in certain countries, geothermal energy can be found at depths between 150m and 500m, while in some areas it may require drilling up to 10,000m to reach the desired temperature.
Al-Mutairi added that Saudi Arabia is blessed with the proximity of the required geothermal depth to the surface, which will help reduce drilling costs, and that abandoned oil wells can also be utilized for this purpose. He noted that geothermal energy, which is very high thermal energy, is used to generate electricity and for desalination by pumping water underground and then bringing it back up hot, which can be utilized in renewable energy programs including water desalination.
The researcher highlighted that this station represents an advancement in the desalination field, as the Kingdom needs desalination technology that uses clean energy and is more cost-effective. The currently employed technology (reverse osmosis) consumes a significant amount of energy and is expensive. He emphasized the necessity for innovative sustainable energy methods, with geothermal energy being the best and most economical option for water desalination. Additionally, it operates year-round. The main objective of the research is to obtain clean water suitable for urban communities, remote desert areas, and future tourism projects by utilizing clean thermal energy available underground.
