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Energy Requirements and Photovoltaic Area for Atmospheric Water Generation in Different Locations: Lisbon, Pretoria, and Riyadh

Author

Listed:
  • Vasco Correia

    (Department of Electromechanical Engineering, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal)

  • Pedro D. Silva

    (Department of Electromechanical Engineering, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
    C-MAST—Center for Mechanical and Aerospace Science and Technologies, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal)

  • Luís C. Pires

    (Department of Electromechanical Engineering, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
    C-MAST—Center for Mechanical and Aerospace Science and Technologies, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal)

Abstract

Atmospheric water generation (AWG) is a technological innovation that facilitates the extraction of water from the atmosphere using various techniques. In response to mounting concerns regarding water scarcity in multiple regions globally, AWG has emerged as a promising solution for providing potable water in areas where conventional water sources are limited or contaminated. AWG systems can be implemented across diverse settings, ranging from individual households to large-scale industrial operations, and can be powered by renewable energy sources. Despite the inherent challenges associated with upscaling AWG technology to ensure its affordability and reliability, it possesses the potential to make a significant contribution towards meeting the water requirements of communities in both developed and developing nations. This study aimed to investigate the performance and limitations of a commercially available dehumidifier, namely, the Trotec TTK140S (Heinsberg, Germany), through experimental analysis. Additionally, the feasibility of integrating this dehumidifier with a photovoltaic energy source was explored. Initially, the dehumidifier’s water production and energy consumption were assessed under specific conditions. Subsequently, a comparison was conducted across three different locations (Lisbon, Pretoria, and Riyadh) to evaluate the dehumidifier’s operation and ascertain the photovoltaic module area necessary for it to function independently. This approach effectively addresses one of the main drawbacks of the technology, namely, its substantial energy consumption.

Suggested Citation

  • Vasco Correia & Pedro D. Silva & Luís C. Pires, 2023. "Energy Requirements and Photovoltaic Area for Atmospheric Water Generation in Different Locations: Lisbon, Pretoria, and Riyadh," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(13), pages 1-27, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:16:y:2023:i:13:p:5201-:d:1188221
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Anna Magrini & Lucia Cattani & Marco Cartesegna & Lorenza Magnani, 2017. "Water Production from Air Conditioning Systems: Some Evaluations about a Sustainable Use of Resources," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 9(8), pages 1-17, July.
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