Abstract
Freshwater scarcity is a big problem across the world, especially in dry areas like the Middle East and North Africa. Reverse Osmosis (RO) desalination has become a prominent option, although it consumes a significant amount of energy and raises environmental concerns. This paper proposes an integrated method that would convert the brine storage tanks of the Barka V RO desalination plant in Oman into solar gel ponds (SGPs) and utilize an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) to generate electricity. The system utilizes solar energy to generate approximately 18.5 kW of renewable power. This reduces the Specific Power Consumption Index (SPCi) and operational costs while also reusing brine to minimize environmental impact. Cross-linked polyacrylamide hydrogel is used to improve thermal stability. Prototype testing demonstrated that the idea was technically feasible, as it could retain heat even when the temperature reached 62.5 degrees Celsius. The suggested concept not only reduces CO2 emissions and the effects of brine discharge, but it also offers significant economic advantages, with a payback time of less than six months. This comprehensive framework backs Oman Vision 2040 and offers a long-term, flexible option for desalination facilities in other dry coastal areas