An optimization model for the production of desalinated water using photovoltaic systems

In this work, an optimization model using a genetic algorithm technique is developed for the desalinated water production cost using photovoltaics (PVs). In order to demonstrate the applicability of the method a parametric study is carried out for the optimum reverse osmosis (RO) desalinated water cost. In particular, taking into account various RO plant capacities the desalinated water cost have been determined for various scenarios from which the requirements in electrical energy are covered partly (25%, 50%, 75%) and/or fully (100%) from PVs. Based on the data and the assumptions used, the results indicate that the production cost of desalinated water is increased with the degree of integration of PVs for partial and/or total electricity requirements of the RO plant.