Effect of thermodynamic limitations on PV initial cost estimations for solar-powered RO desalination

► Second law of thermodynamics is used to estimate PV arrays' cost in PV-RO systems. ► This cost is a function of location, which includes feed salinity and climate data. ► Investigated feed salinity starts from brackish water till dead-sea water. ► Effect of exhaust brine salinity has also been investigated. ► Power & PV area for PV-RO system producing 10 m3/day computed for different locations.