With freshwater supplies threatened due to drought, climate change and rapid socioeconomic growth, water competition is increasing between the electric power sector and other sectors.

Further, efforts to decarbonise fossil fuel-fired power plants by carbon capture and storage would significantly increase water consumption.

“Non-traditional water sources can be deployed to help cope with climate-induced water risks and tackle the increasing water demand for decarbonisation of fossil fuel-fired power plants,” the researchers wrote.

“Treatment of brackish groundwater for thermoelectric generation cooling can help alleviate potential competition for freshwater resources among various sectors in water-stressed regions.”

Removing excess dissolved salts and minerals from brackish water can itself be energy intensive and produce concentrated brines requiring disposal. A method known as 'zero liquid discharge' minimises the environmental impacts of desalination...