A Hydrokinetic Design to Alleviate Freshwater Demand

Abstract

Freshwater scarcity is a growing global concern, with the urban population facing water shortages projected to double by 2050, affecting up to 2.4 billion people. Desalination, a potential solution, currently accounts for just 1% of the world’s drinking water due to its high cost, energy intensity, and reliance on fossil fuels. Traditional desalination plants consume over 200 million kilowatt-hours daily and contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, which is counterproductive in addressing water scarcity exacerbated by climate change.

This project proposes a sustainable and low-cost desalination approach using a hydropower energy generation system that harnesses the kinetic energy of seawater. The system employs ram pumps to lift seawater to a higher-altitude reservoir. Stored potential energy from the elevated seawater is converted into electricity through a turbine. This selfsustaining system uses the generated electricity to desalinate wastewater produced during the pumping process, eliminating the need for external energy sources. It is particularly suitable for coastal areas, where 40% of the global population resides within 100 kilometers of a coast.

By utilizing a renewable and perpetually available energy source, this approach reduces reliance on fossil fuels and minimizes environmental impact, rendering it a viable and scalable solution to the global freshwater crisis. The system's adaptability to various coastal environments enhances its potential for widespread application.