Optimization
Energy Optimization Services for Desalination Plants
Energy Efficiency in Desalination: INEXA’s Competitive Advantage
At INEXA, we have established ourselves as leaders in energy optimization of desalination plants, especially in Seawater Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) systems. Our expertise, backed by more than 15 years in the sector and certified under ISO 9001:2015 standard, allows us to offer comprehensive solutions that maximize efficiency and significantly reduce the operational costs of your facility.
ISO 9001:2015 Certified Energy Audits
Since 2018, our energy audits in water treatment and desalination plants are included in our ISO 9001:2015 certification granted by Bureau Veritas (Certificate number: ES142536-1, valid until 29-01-2027). This endorsement guarantees that all our analysis, diagnosis, and improvement implementation processes follow the highest international quality standards.
ROPTimax Methodology: Scientific Optimization of Energy Consumption
Our proprietary ROPTimax methodology represents a significant advancement in optimizing the design and performance of SWRO desalination plants. Unlike traditional approaches, ROPTimax comprehensively analyzes all variables affecting the specific energy consumption (SEC):
- Annual Temperature Analysis: Detailed evaluation of seawater temperature profile throughout the year
- Recovery and Flow Optimization: Determination of the optimal operating point according to specific conditions
- Membrane Selection: Analysis of membrane hybridization to maximize efficiency
- Comprehensive SEC Evaluation: Analysis of total energy consumption, not just the reverse osmosis process
Demonstrated Energy Saving Potential
- Energy consumption in modern SWRO plants has been reduced to approximately 3 kWh/m³, compared to more than 50 kWh/m³ in early evaporation plants
- Our energy audits have identified saving potentials between 15% and 30% in existing plants
- In retrofitting projects, we have achieved SEC reductions of up to 0.8 kWh/m³, representing annual savings of hundreds of thousands of euros
Comprehensive Optimization Services
1. Specialized Energy Audits
- Detailed consumption analysis by subsystems
- Identification of inefficiencies and bottlenecks
- Benchmarking with reference plants
- Detailed report with quantified improvement measures
2. Design Optimization (New Plants)
- Application of ROPTimax methodology from the conceptual phase
- Optimal selection of equipment and configuration
- Efficient sizing of pumping and energy recovery systems
- Modeling and simulation of different operating scenarios
3. Retrofitting and Improvement of Existing Plants
- Replacement of inefficient equipment
- Reconfiguration of membrane racks
- Implementation of advanced control systems
- Optimization of operating protocols
4. Continuous Monitoring and Follow-up
- Implementation of real-time monitoring systems
- Trend analysis and early detection of deviations
- Continuous adjustment of operating parameters
- Periodic performance reports
Success Cases
- Modification of rack configuration K(10) and L(11) of E.D.A.M. LP III: Significant improvement in energy efficiency through strategic reconfigurations
- Combined cycle desalination plant in the Middle East (10,000m³/d): Optimized design with specific consumption of 2.3-2.5 kWh/m³, significantly below the industry average
- Desalination plant for ASRY (Bahrain): Implementation of innovative solutions that achieved energy consumption in the range of 2.3-2.5 kWh/m³ under challenging Middle Eastern conditions
The Added Value of Open Source Tools
- Advanced modeling: Use of specialized software to simulate different configurations and operating scenarios
- BIM integration: Visualization and management of 3D models to optimize design and construction
- Integrated project management: Detailed tracking of implementations using OpenProject
- Efficient collaboration: Secure information sharing systems with clients and collaborators
Economic and Environmental Benefits
- Reduction of operational costs: Energy consumption represents up to 60% of operational costs in SWRO plants
- Lower carbon footprint: Each kWh/m³ saved represents a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions
- Longer equipment life: Optimized operation reduces wear and extends the useful life of pumps, membranes, and other components
- More affordable water: Reduction of operational costs allows offering desalinated water at more competitive prices
Commitment to Excellence
At INEXA, we are committed to offering energy optimization solutions that maximize the performance of your desalination plant. Our data-driven approach, backed by our ISO 9001:2015 certification and our extensive experience in the sector, guarantees tangible and measurable results.