Optimized multi-generation system for sustainable desalination and power production using solar-driven Multi-Effect Distillation (MED) in Basra, Iraq

Abstract

This study designs and optimizes a solar-driven multi-generation system integrating parabolic trough solar thermal technology with Multi-Effect Distillation (MED) for sustainable desalination and power production in Basra, Iraq. The system addresses the region’s water scarcity by leveraging its abundant solar resources. Using the System Advisor Model (SAM), the parabolic trough plant’s thermal and electrical outputs were simulated, with the thermal energy driving the MED process. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) optimized key parameters, including steam temperature (60 °C to 200 °C) and the number of effects (6 to 24), to maximize efficiency. A six-hour thermal energy storage (TES) system ensured stable operation during solar fluctuations. The optimized MED system achieved a desalination rate of 104.7 kg/s, an exergy destruction rate of 600.9 kW, and a cost rate of 0.15 $/s, demonstrating a 20% efficiency improvement over conventional systems. TES enabled reliable operation, with thermal and electrical outputs peaking at 90 MW${}_{\text{t}}$ and 35 MW${}_{\text{e}}$, respectively. The findings underscore the potential of integrating solar thermal technology with MED for scalable, efficient, and sustainable desalination in high-irradiance regions. This work provides a framework for optimizing renewable energy-driven desalination systems, contributing to global efforts in sustainable water production.