Research Projects

The Indian water supply has significantly decreased from 10-15 h/d in 1985 to 1.5 h/d in 2006, with 54% of Indian states falling into highly water stress zones. Despite this, 96% of households have access to grid-connected electricity. India aims to meet 40% of its energy demand from clean energy by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. To address rising water demand and decarbonize the electric grid, solar energy can be utilized. This project proposes a novel configuration of a PV module-based co-generation system capable of meeting the electrical and drinking water demands of a single family in rural, remote, and coastal regions. The main components of the system include a PV module, vertical multi effect solar still, and compound parabolic concentrator (CPC). The rear side of the PV module will be used as an absorber for the vertical multi effect solar still, rectifying any impact on solar radiation due to its vertical orientation. The integrated CPC rectifies the vertical orientation, avoiding self-consumption of power generated by the PV module. Waste heat energy will be recovered through direct evaporation of feed water, allowing more efficient heat recovery. Desalination capacity has been increased through multiple effects, enhancing the module's life and reliability. This work is suitable for major national initiatives of the Government of India, such as the National Solar Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission, and India's commitment to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.