Developing a proof-of-concept process model for the techno-economic assessment of a modular geothermal Multi-Effect Distillation desalination plan

Abstract

Freshwater scarcity affects millions, with projections indicating that by 2030, 700 million people may face displacement due to severe water shortage. In response, JRG Energy Consultants Ltd (JRG) have developed Magnuvis, a geothermal desalination concept utilising an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) and Multi-Effect Distillation (MED) process. While previous feasibility assessments have informed its development, JRG seeks to refine the concept by creating an independent model for validation and optimisation. This study presents a Geothermal ORC-MED Desalination model based on thermodynamic energy-mass balance analysis to assess its techno-economic viability. Initial results indicate that increasing geothermal resource mass flow rate enhances ORC network output and distilled water production and is consistent with expectations. Specifically, water production rates improve from 64 m3/day to 130 m3/day and 191 m3/day as brine flow rate rises from 30 kg/s to 60 kg/s to 90 kg/s respectively at a supply temp of 120°C. These results reflect similar trends observed in other studied works and show that this model serves as a foundation for system improvements and real-world deployment.