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December 22nd, 2023
Via BNN, a look at some innovative water solutions combating Spain’s drought:
Spain is grappling with a severe drought, particularly in regions such as Andalusia and Catalonia, where water reserves are languishing below 20%. In response to this crisis, a range of technologies are being deployed, including portable desalination units and systems that extract water from the air using solar energy. In an innovative effort, engineers from Cornell University have developed the Integrated Pumped Hydro Reverse Osmosis System (IPHROS), a device that combines seawater desalination and energy storage, designed to supply large coastal populations.
Combating Drought with Innovation
IPHROS operates by pumping seawater to a reservoir at the top of a mountain and subsequently releasing it by gravity towards a hydroelectric power station and a desalination facility. This ingenious system can simultaneously meet energy and freshwater needs. A large-scale system is estimated to provide 79.5 million kilowatt-hours of electricity and 5.79 million cubic meters of freshwater per day, enough to cater to roughly 661,000 households.
More than Just Water
Moreover, this system could significantly reduce investment and maintenance costs and offer a natural solution for diluting the brine resulting from desalination. The approach unites two critical infrastructures – energy and water – into a single, more efficient and sustainable system. It’s an example of how technology can be leveraged to solve pressing environmental issues, offering a beacon of hope in the face of escalating global water crises.
Global Implications
While IPHROS is a particular solution for Spain’s drought, its implications are global. The world is witnessing an increasing number of areas suffering from water scarcity, and the need for sustainable and efficient water supply systems is more urgent than ever. The innovation from Cornell University represents a significant step forward in addressing these challenges, showing how technology can be harnessed to ensure access to clean water and sustainable energy, two fundamental pillars for development and wellbeing.
