A novel hybrid compact system of photovoltaic solar still air gap membrane distillation for the simultaneous production of water and energy

Remote arid and coastal areas have dry climates, limited freshwater supplies, and intense solar radia-tion. Solar still (SS) and photovoltaic (PV) technologies are preferred for small-scale water and power demands. However, these techniques have low thermal efficiency and thus limited water productivity. A compact hybrid system with a novel design combines a solar still air gap membrane distillation process with a photovoltaic panel. Outdoor experiments revealed daily average yields of produced water and power of 5.9 kg/m2 and 0.68 kWh/m2, respectively, when solar radiation intensity was 6.4 kWh/m2. Throughout the day, the specific productivity (permeate flow) of potable water, elec-tric power, and thermal efficiency coefficient is evaluated. The results indicate that as solar radia-tion increases, productivity increases. The daily yield of the hybrid system increased 1.6-fold when compared to a single-stage AGMD system and cascade solar still arrangement system, and 72% of solar energy was efficiently utilized.