Innovative Solutions to Water Scarcity in Spain

Freshwater resources are vital for human health, ecosystems, and the functioning of economies and societies. However, these essential resources are increasingly under threat due to rising demand across the European Union. The Water Exploitation Index Plus (WEI+) is a key indicator that helps gauge the pressure on freshwater resources. According to the index, values above 20% suggest that water resources are under stress, and conditions of water scarcity could prevail. When the WEI+ exceeds 40%, the stress on freshwater resources becomes severe, and their use may become unsustainable. 

In both the third quarters of 2019 and 2022, Spain recorded WEI+ values of 47.2% and 33.3%, respectively, indicating that its water resources were under significant stress. Despite this, Spain's vast coastline—stretching 4,964 kilometers—offers an opportunity to address its freshwater challenges through desalination, providing a potential solution to combat water scarcity. 

Innovative Solutions for Water Scarcity: The SANE Project 

The SANE project is an ambitious initiative that explores the feasibility of using nuclear energy to support a variety of applications while addressing water scarcity. The project investigates the possibility of coupling a nuclear reactor with multiple industries, including the process industry, district heating, nuclear space applications, agriculture, hydrogen production, e-fuel production, ship propulsion, desalination, urban waste management, and data centers. 

One of the key focuses of the SANE project is desalination. Thermal desalination technologies, which convert seawater into freshwater, are energy-intensive processes that require large amounts of thermal energy. To achieve optimal performance, these technologies must operate continuously. Therefore, the SANE project aims to ensure a stable and reliable thermal energy source capable of powering all the interconnected applications. 

Nuclear energy is a promising solution. It is a green energy source with a high level of technical maturity and safety, making it ideal for powering desalination technologies. As part of the SANE Project, a Modular Small Reactor (SMR), specifically the Low-temperature District Heating Reactor (LDR) developed by VTT, is being considered as the power source for the desalination process. The LDR reactor is well-suited for integration with desalination systems and can help Spain address its freshwater needs sustainably. 

Spain's Path to Sustainable Water Solutions 

Given Spain's unique geographical conditions and the specific requirements of the LDR reactor, researchers are examining potential locations for deploying desalination technologies coupled with nuclear reactors. Some current or former inshore nuclear sites in Spain are being explored as possible sites for such innovative solutions. 

By combining advanced desalination technologies with a stable and clean energy source, Spain has the opportunity to mitigate the impacts of water scarcity, ensuring a sustainable and reliable freshwater supply for both its people and its economy. 

In conclusion, the SANE project represents a pioneering step towards addressing water scarcity through innovation. By harnessing the power of nuclear energy and advanced desalination techniques, Spain could lead the way in overcoming one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.