The Applications of Renewable Energy in Water Purification Systems
Case Study of Remote or Off Grid Areas
Keywords:
Renewable Energy, Water Purification, Heavy Metals, Off-Grid Areas, Delta StateAbstract
This study investigated the applications of renewable energy in water purification systems within remote or off-grid areas, focusing on Delta State, Nigeria. The research examined the effectiveness of solar, wind, hydroelectric, and biomass energy sources in enhancing water quality. Data revealed high levels of contamination, with heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) exceeding safe limits, with Pb at 0.23 mg/L and Cd at 0.15 mg/L, and high total coliform counts reaching 120 CFU/100 mL. The study evaluated various renewable technologies for their feasibility in addressing these challenges. Findings demonstrated that solar energy systems effectively reduced contaminants, achieving up to 85% reduction in heavy metals, while wind and hydroelectric systems showed variable success based on local conditions. The research highlighted the economic and operational challenges, including high initial costs and the need for energy storage solutions. It concluded that renewable energy-powered systems offer a viable solution, provided there is careful planning, community involvement, and appropriate technology selection.