The water stressed South Aegean region has built a floating self-dependent water factory which runs on renewable energy to convert seawater into much needed drinkable water. A desalination system developed by the University of the Aegean is providing the region with a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to its water scarcity problem.
Floating factory makes salt water drinkable in Aegean Islands
- 12 January 2010
In the past, we would run out of water many times each year. Every summer, up to 2-3 times for 2-3 days, everybody runs out of water and the tourists leave. Last year we got water from the ecological system and, now, we no longer have this problem.
Since the ecological desalination system was installed the region has experienced a notable economic upturn. The tourism sector - which doubled the region’s water consumption in the summer - is able to grow and other parts of the local economy, such as farming, are benefiting from increased water supplies. New business is also being created, making the renewable energy sector more vibrant.
Unmanned desalination plant
This project created the first wind powered, floating desalination plant in the world. The plant is wholly independent as it operates using energy from a wind generator and photovoltaic system. Electricity is also generated and can supply the island. A major advantage of the system is that unlike the vast majority of existing systems, it does not use any chemical pre-treatment of the sea water.
Equipped with several sensors, the platform is also able to gather data regarding wind, water and operation-related parameters, making the plant more than a water factory but an actual floating research laboratory.
The University of the Aegean and the South Aegean region worked together on the islands’ energy and water-related supply problems. They developed an initial idea and then invited organisations with experience in desalination, energy and marine applications to participate. The consortium proved extremely insightful and led to the creation of a highly innovative unit, both in terms of design and energy management.
Supply for the future
The platform is able to cover the needs of approximately 300 people, producing 70 m³ of water per day. With an average payback time of ten years after investment, the payback time for the plant including maintenance is short at only three years.
After this period, the water will be produced free of charge for 20 years, the expected lifespan of the plant. Given its success, future developments are in the pipeline to increase the scale of the project. An interregional partnership set up at the beginning of the project will see how the project can be taken further.