Clean Water Using Solar and Wind: Outside the Power Grid

The aim of Clean Water Using Solar and Wind is to make water professionals aware of the possibilities that solar photo-voltaic (PV) and wind offer to bring, not only clean energy but also clean water to remote and rural areas in Africa and developing Asia as well as in many peri-urban areas in the developing world. These areas are located outside the conventional electric grids and a grid connection is usually not economically feasible. The systems are scalable and can be designed to any size, from the household level to village and community levels. It also means that more capacity can be readily added when demand increases. Two important factors are emphasized: economy and geopolitics. Renewable energy sources are products of manufacturing. Using mass manufacturing means that the cost is related to economy of scale. The fact that manufacturing in principle can be conducted anywhere means that renewables can offer genuine energy security. The cost is up-front and then the 'fuel' is free. There is no geopolitical pressure where one country has deposits of a fossil fuel but another does not. Renewables promise an end to the era where energy security is closely related to geopolitics. This book brings new perspectives concerning decentralized water treatment. Cost development is the key driving force.

“Prof. Olsson has deep insights and wisdom on the importance of synergy between water and energy sectors, thus this book would serve as a main reference for professionals on how both sectors could serve the needs of the people in a sustainable manner!”

Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Zaini Ujang
Secretary-general, Energy, Green Technology and Water Ministry (KeTTHA), Malaysia

“Too many people still lack access to clean water and energy. Professor Gustaf Olsson skilfully explains how modern clean energy options could bring clean water to less privileged people all over the world. This book truly deepens our understanding of the water-energy nexus.”

Professor Peter D. Lund
Aalto University, Finland

“Prof. Olsson’s latest book is designed to enhance understanding of the renewable energy revolution that is now underway, and how use of solar and wind energy can help provide water services to those currently underserved. He succeeds in a carefully written, concise, and yet comprehensive book that will appeal to many audiences. These include water professionals who wish to learn about solar and wind energy, public and private officials responsible for providing energy and water services, those in the financial community who will be called upon to provide the necessary investment funds, and those students interested in entering these emerging fields. His book is an important contribution to understanding vital changes taking place broadly in the 21st century that will improve the lives of millions.”

Dr. Allan Hoffman
Senior Analyst, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, U.S. Department of Energy (retired), Author, The U.S. Government and Renewable Energy: A Winding Road, Washington D.C., United States

“Water and energy are two of the most important pillars that support modern civilisation. Despite many similarities, the two have traditionally been generated and delivered in very different ways by different organisations and subject to different legislation and regulation but to the same customers. The very success of conventional, centralised distribution systems in large urban areas has also been their limitation for communities not living in industrialised countries. Cost and scale. This book explores and supports the provision of clean water to communities which are off-grid based on the tremendous advances made in recent years around renewable energy generation, especially solar PV and wind. It explains in the clearest possible terms the potential, progress, economics and technology that can make this a reality. It is a book for specialists and a book for generalists written in a clear and engaging style by an author of immense experience, knowledge and wisdom. It can’t be said for many books, but this really is one that can change the world!”

Professor David Butler
Director, Centre for Water Systems, University of Exeter, UK

“Gustaf is certainly a leader in the area of the water-energy nexus, having previously published one of the most useful books on this topic – Water and Energy: Threats and Opportunities. In his new book, Gustaf makes a clear case for the value of off-grid water and sanitation systems and the enormous potential for renewables to play a part in these systems. Gustaf has a special skill when it comes to explaining concepts in an understandable way and clearly shows how solar and wind can be integrated at each stage of the water supply and sanitation process.”

Professor Shuming Liu
Vice Dean of School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China