Optimized Climate-Resilient Desalination for Algeria’s 2030 Water Strategy

Intensifying climate change, characterized by aridification and diminishing freshwater reserves, necessitates sustainable desalination to achieve Algeria’s 2030 Water Strategy goal of 2.1 billion m³/year. Conventional seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO), with energy demands of 3–4 kWh/m³ and brine discharge of 1–1.5 times product water, poses sustainability challenges. This study introduces a novel framework integrating renewable energy, artificial intelligence (AI), and circular economy principles to enhance water security. The framework combines solar-powered SWRO, AI-driven optimization using Artificial Neural Networks and Genetic Algorithms, MCDM for site selection, and brine valorization for lithium and magnesium recovery. Solar photovoltaic systems leverage Algeria’s high solar irradiance (>5 kWh/m²/day), while AI optimizes operational efficiency. MCDM balances energy, environmental, and public health criteria, and brine valorization targets economic sustainability. Solar-powered SWRO reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 85–95% compared to fossil fuel-based systems and 70–80% versus thermal desalination. AI optimization lowers costs by 15–35%, and brine valorization offsets 10–20% of expenses, potentially yielding $50–100 million annually. The framework projects a CO₂ reduction of 2.1 million tons/year by 2030, aligning with SDGs 6, 7, 9, and 13. This framework transforms desalination into a sustainable, circular economy-driven solution, offering a replicable model for arid coastal regions globally. Strategic site selection and smart grid integration minimize ecological and health risks, ensuring climate-resilient water security.