海水淡水化施設は、海水から塩分を取り除いて淡水を作ります。

READING

Desalination plants turn seawater into fresh water by removing salt. They are useful in dry coastal regions, but the process requires a large amount of energy. Most plants have traditionally depended on electricity produced from fossil fuels. Some new projects connect desalination equipment to solar or wind power so that fresh water can be produced with renewable energy.

Supporters of renewable-powered desalination point to the benefits. Using renewable electricity can reduce the carbon dioxide emissions connected with producing fresh water. This allows regions to increase their water supply without creating as much additional pollution from power generation. There is another advantage. Sunny and windy coastal areas often have both seawater and strong renewable energy resources. Desalination plants in such places can use locally produced power instead of depending entirely on fuel brought from other regions.

Critics, on the other hand, point out a problem. Solar and wind power depend on weather conditions, so the amount of electricity available to desalination plants can change from day to day. When there is not enough sunlight or wind, the plants may be unable to produce their usual amount of fresh water. This can make it difficult to maintain a stable water supply for communities that need water every day.