Water as a Renewable Energy Storage Medium for Water-Scarce Countries

Albatayneh, Aiman , Al-Omary, Murad , Wedyan, Mohammed , Aljarrah, Mohammad

2025 AIR SOIL AND WATER RESEARCH 2025   18(卷), null(期), (null页)

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This study introduces an innovative strategy to simultaneously address two pressing global challenges: renewable energy's intermittency and freshwater scarcity in arid regions. By redirecting surplus energy from renewable sources such as solar and wind into water desalination processes, energy is effectively stored in the form of freshwater. This approach leverages the water-energy nexus to offer a low-cost, sustainable alternative to traditional energy storage methods like batteries or pumped hydro systems, which often involve high infrastructure and environmental costs. The proposed method is particularly relevant for regions with abundant but inconsistent renewable energy supplies. By converting excess electricity into desalinated water, the system enhances both energy efficiency and water security, especially in arid and semi-arid areas. The research demonstrates that reverse osmosis powered by surplus renewable energy can produce freshwater at a significantly lower cost ($1.27/m(3) and 3.5 kWh/m(3)) compared to conventional methods ($3.00/m(3) and 5 kWh/m(3)). The study reinforces the value of this dual-purpose strategy as a practical, environmentally beneficial solution that strengthens the resilience of energy and water systems within the broader food-energy-water nexus.