Desalinización para potabilizar agua de mar mediante la integración con energía geotérmica en Jipijapa, Ecuador.

Abstract

My study focuses on the development of a sustainable system for desalinating seawater, utilizing the benefits of geothermal energy in the Jipijapa Canton, located in the province of Manabí, Ecuador. This project was born in response to the severe lack of drinking water faced by the local population, caused by a lack of rainfall, salinization of aquifers, and limited water supply infrastructure. Access to safe drinking water in the Jipijapa region is not only a technical challenge but also a structural problem with a direct impact on health, society, and the local economy. My recommendation focuses on the use of natural geothermal sources in the canton, such as Andil, Choconchá, and Joa, which provide the appropriate temperature and quantity of water to fuel thermal distillation processes. This desalination technology is more efficient and allows for sustainable and effective treatment of seawater. The use of geothermal heat as an energy source ensures constant operation, independent of weather and with low carbon emissions, which is important to help combat climate change. My research methodology includes several main stages. First, we conducted a comparative analysis of successful cases in other countries to understand how similar systems have been implemented. We also studied the characteristics of the local geothermal potential in the Jipijapa canton, evaluating both the technical and financial conditions of available desalination technologies. In addition, we developed a preliminary testing system program specifically tailored to the needs and conditions of the canton. Second, we analyzed the social, environmental, and economic impact that this system should have, taking into account benefits such as improved public health, job creation, a boost to the agricultural sector, public resilience to extreme weather events, and increased tourism. Finally, combining desalination with geothermal energy is an innovative, practical, and environmentally friendly solution for providing access to drinking water in vulnerable coastal areas.