King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (KACARE), in partnership with the Saudi Water Authority (SWA), has completed the development of an integrated water desalination system in Riyadh that uses solar thermal energy combined with forward osmosis technology, reports Zawya.
The project was carried out by teams from KACARE and SWA's Water Technologies Innovation Institute and Research Advancement (WTIIRA).
KACARE, established in 2010 and based in Riyadh, focuses on advancing nuclear and renewable energy technologies in Saudi Arabia through research and collaboration with government entities, scientific bodies, and international partners.
This project is part of a national effort to develop sustainable renewable energy applications
This project is part of a national effort to develop sustainable renewable energy applications. It features a pilot system utilising concentrated solar power as a heat source alongside forward osmosis technology for desalination. According to reports, the system operates with zero carbon emissions, relying entirely on solar energy.
The project also reportedly reduced wastewater production by approximately 20% compared to traditional reverse osmosis methods, which may lessen environmental impacts on marine ecosystems. It is presented as a contribution to improving water security in Saudi Arabia while supporting the country's transition toward a low-carbon economy.
The initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia's broader sustainability goals and Vision 2030 objectives related to energy, water, and environmental sectors.
