A decentralized water/electricity cogeneration system integrating concentrated photovoltaic/thermal collectors and vacuum multi-effect membrane distillation

Cogeneration of electricity and freshwater by integrating photovoltaic/thermal collectors desalination systems is one the most promising methods to tackle challenges water energy shortages in remote areas. This study investigates a decentralized water/electricity cogeneration system combining concentrated vacuum multi-effect membrane distillation system. The merits such configuration include high compactness improved thermodynamic efficiency. To evaluate long-term production potential proposed system, analysis firstly conducted. Under climatic conditions Makkah, Saudi Arabia, can convert ∼70% solar irradiance into useful energy. annual productivity distilled are 562 kWh 5.25 m3, respectively, per m2 collector area. Electricity rates found be impacted hot flowrate, feed seawater flowrate heat storage tank dimension, while overall exergy efficiency stabilizes at 25–27%. Based on rates, life-cycle economic then final cost calculated $0.7–4.3/m3, depending price. derived results will enable more in-depth understanding solar-driven