Solar Powered Desalination for Irrigation

North Africa faces mounting water stress, driven by climate change, population growth, and increased agricultural demand. In many MENA countries, agriculture accounts for over 80% of freshwater use, a trend that is unsustainable given the region’s dwindling water resources. Launched in 2023, the AWARE Initiative has been identifying and scaling innovative water-smart solutions that enhance agricultural resilience and water security. Among the most promising approaches is solar-powered desalination for irrigation—a solution that capitalizes on the region’s vast solar potential while reducing dependence on overstretched freshwater reserves. Pilot projects led by the private sector—including Noor Energy, Engazaat, and Climate Resilient Africa Fund—have demonstrated the technical and economic feasibility of decentralized, off-grid solar desalination systems. However, key challenges remain, particularly around brine management, regulatory harmonization, and the lack of scalable public-private investment models. This side event aims to explore and co-create viable, replicable business models that integrate public policy and private innovation to mainstream solar-powered desalination in agriculture. Special attention will be given to environmental sustainability—particularly brine disposal and valorization—and to building a regional framework that enables scaling across the MENA region.
  • 14:00 - 15:30 (LOUVRE 5)
    Day 4

Conveners

  • UNDP

  • MWRI

Chairman

Moderator

Speakers