Exploração de águas subterrâneas associada a fontes renováveis de energia na redução da vulnerabilidade hídrica no nordeste brasileiro : o caso do Programa Água Doce no Rio Grande do Norte

Abstract

The Northeast Region has about 65% of its territory in a semi-arid area, where there is a water deficit. This condition creates obstacles to meeting the demand for water in the region, putting pressure on public management to seek alternatives that reduce the reported water vulnerability. In this context, groundwater found in a vast area of the semiarid, estimate at 250 million m³, is gaining importance. The study is centered on the use of a desalination process, based on the Reverse Osmosis technique of groundwater associated with photovoltaic solar energy to reduce the water vulnerability of the semiarid region of Rio Grande do Norte. Attention is paid to examining of the correct destination and use of the waste generated from this exploration. In its results, the research shows that the potential for the use of solar photovoltaic energy in desalination systems is significant and presents the dimensioning of the total power of the Photovoltaic Solar Systems necessary to supply the electric energy demand of the Desalination Systems, employed in 68 communities benefited by the Fresh Water Program. Compared to other water supply strategies, such as a tank truck, the evaluated alternative is better adapted to local natural conditions.