Design and Cost Analysis of a Solar Photovoltaic Powered Reverse Osmosis Plant for Masdar Institute

In this study we designed a cost-effective reverse osmosis (RO) desalination unit integrated with a solar photovoltaic (PV) energy source for Masdar Institute of Science and Technology. The proposed system does not rely on expensive batteries or extra land and drastically decreases the government expenses to subsidize water production cost by $ 1.34 /m3. In addition, the system reduces the GHG emissions by 361 tCO2 annually. The equity payback period was found to be 25 years. Comparing the results obtained with conventional values, it can well be said that this system would definitely provide a much needed efficient alternative to the current method of water purification making it more sustainable and economically feasible at the same time.