Modeling, control, and dynamic performance analysis of a reverse osmosis desalination plant integrated within hybrid energy systems

An RO (reverse osmosis) desalination plant is proposed as an effective, FLR (flexible load resource) to be integrated into HES (hybrid energy systems) to support various types of ancillary services to the electric grid, under variable operating conditions. To study the dynamic analysis of such system, special attention is given here to the detailed dynamic modeling and control design of RO desalination process that employs a spiral-wound membrane module. In particular, the solution-diffusion model modified with the concentration polarization theory is applied to predict RO performance over a large range of operating conditions. Simulation results involving several case studies suggest that an RO desalination plant can provide operational flexibility to participate in energy management at the utility scale by dynamically optimizing the use of excess electrical energy. The incorporation of additional commodity (fresh water) produced from a FLR allows a broader range of HES operations for maximizing overall system performance and profitability.