A recent study published in the journal Environmental Research Communications addresses a pressing issue in sub-Saharan Africa: water scarcity. As climate change exacerbates the challenges posed by fossil fuel extraction, the need for sustainable solutions becomes increasingly urgent. This research, led by Khadijetou Ntaghry from the Efficiency and Energetic Systems Research Group at Alioune Diop University in Senegal, explores the integration of concentrated solar power (CSP) with desalination systems (DS) in Mauritania.
The study employs a multi-criteria decision-making framework that combines mathematical approaches with geospatial analysis techniques to identify optimal locations for implementing these systems. The findings reveal that approximately 10% of Mauritania’s land, or 103,070 square kilometers, is suitable for the deployment of CSP and desalination facilities. Coastal regions emerge as prime candidates for seawater desalination plants, while the densely populated southeastern areas are ideal for brackish water desalination systems. Additionally, the less inhabited northern territories show potential for decentralized brackish water desalination plants.
This research not only provides a comprehensive approach to tackling water scarcity but also highlights significant commercial opportunities. The integration of CSP with desalination can lead to a sustainable source of potable water while enhancing energy security in a region that desperately needs both. Companies involved in renewable energy, water treatment, and infrastructure development may find new avenues for investment and growth in Mauritania’s evolving landscape.
Ntaghry emphasizes the importance of this research, stating, “This study provides a holistic approach for DS/CSP systems installation to manage water scarcity as well as energy security issues in Mauritania.” The insights gained from this research could serve as a foundation for future policy formulation, guiding investments and initiatives aimed at addressing the dual challenges of water and energy in the region.
As the demand for clean water continues to rise globally, the findings from this study could position Mauritania as a leader in innovative water management solutions. The successful implementation of CSP and desalination systems could not only alleviate local water shortages but also serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges, creating a ripple effect of commercial opportunities across the region.
