An overview of solar desalination for domestic and agriculture water needs in remote arid areas

The work was motivated by the increasing awareness of the need for enhancing water supplies schemes in arid lands featuring an appropriate technology for solar energy use in the desalination field. This paper has investigated (1) presentation of the world water resources in the main arid zones in the world; (2) identification of the different solar energy desalination devices applicable to remote arid areas and suitable for its use for potable and agriculture purposes; and (3) assessment of factors relevant to the implementation of solar desalination units such as economical consideration, technical and operational appropriateness. The assessment of these points shows that solar energy can make a considerable contribution to remote arid areas fresh water supply for domestic or agriculture use. Solar desalination for irrigation by using a solar still combined with greenhouses is stressed. Detailed economic analyses of the above are considered essential. Recommended research topics leading to high efficiency of solar desalination devices are highlighted.