Desalination of Saline Water with the Use of RES: Demand, Current Situation, Development Trends, Forecasts for the Future (Review)

Abstract

Data on the condition of drinking water supply in the world are provided in this work, as well as resources, shortages and forecasts on fresh water resources in the world are estimated on the basis of the available data. The assessment of water resources and condition of drinking water supply in Uzbekistan is presented and the problem of the Aral Sea is mentioned. As one of the main solutions to the problem of drinking water supply for the region’s population, the desalination of saline waters with the use of renewable energy sources (RES), generally solar energy, is proposed. Current global trends on the development of desalination installations with the use of renewable energy sources and forecasts for further development are analyzed. Taking the international experience and development into account, as well as the specifics of our region, some recommendations on the stimulation and development of use of desalination installations using renewable energy sources to improve the quality of the population’s drinking water supply, especially in remote regions, are offered.