Integration of renewables in desalination processes: a Life Project Example for Zero Liquid Discharge under the Energy Transition

Life Desirows European Project is a demonstration project to reduce first-osmosis brine, crystallise salts, eliminate nitrates and recover water resources based on renewables and Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD). 

In recent years, increased emphasis has been placed on the challenge of brine disposal, driven by a heightened awareness of substantial environmental concerns associated with the utilisation of desalination processes for freshwater production. By implementing Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) processes, desalination plants can reduce their environmental impact and improve sustainability. 

Under this framework, this event gives the opportunity to visit in person a pilot solution based on renewables (biomass and photovoltaic) to achieve a ZLD system based on renewable energy resources. 

The LIFE Desirows project (LIFE19 ENV/ES/000447) is managed by a consortium led by the REGENERA company and in which the Polytechnic University of Cartagena (UPCT), the Arco Sur Irrigation Community and other companies from the Region of Murcia with experience in this type of project, such as Hidrogea and Hidrotec. 

The project will finish in June 2024 and this event will allow us to meet all partners for a final technical meeting and to offer the stakeholders and the rest of the society the opportunity to visit the pilot in person and discuss with the partners the potential possibilities to implement this solution in order areas and locations. 

Specific goals of the event

The main objective of the event is to present and discuss the main results and conclusions of the Life Desirows project, being an open event to different profiles and sectors. People attending will be able to visit in person a desalination pilot solution based on renewables: biomass and photovoltaic to achieve a ZLD system for underground water. Indeed, the salinity level of such water resources is becoming increasingly greater and more concerning over most of the Mediterranean area. 

Among those invited to the event will be students or researchers, professionals from the sector, as well as social agents and representatives of associations in the field of energy such as Murcia Renewable Energy and Energy Saving Business Association (AREMUR).