Global infrastructure and renewable energy firm ACCIONA has launched a groundbreaking digital solution designed to tackle the high energy consumption of reverse osmosis (RO) desalination, a critical but power-intensive process for water security. The new AI-powered technology has been successfully deployed at one of the company’s desalination plants in Qatar, marking a significant step towards more sustainable water infrastructure in the region.
A Dual-Model Approach to Optimization
At the core of the innovation is a Dual-Model Optimization System that integrates two complementary technologies to enhance the efficiency of RO rack operations. The first component, ACRRO® (Advanced Control Reverse osmosis Rack Optimization), is an in-house simulation model that uses advanced algorithms to predict and optimize rack behavior with high precision. This is paired with Insight, a real-time, AI-driven tool trained on operational data to continuously fine-tune process parameters for peak energy performance. By combining predictive simulation with adaptive AI, ACCIONA’s system can identify optimal settings to reduce energy use without compromising water output.
Qatar Serves as Successful Testbed
The system’s successful implementation in Qatar demonstrates a powerful example of transferring cutting-edge innovation directly into live operations and maintenance. This real-world application validates the technology’s potential to enhance efficiency, increase water production rates, and improve overall sustainability. The solution is also connected to CECOA, ACCIONA’s centralized Water Control Centre in Madrid, enabling centralized monitoring and ensuring the model can be scaled across the company’s global operations.
“This innovation represents a significant leap in sustainable water infrastructure,” said Guillermo Hijós, O&M Desalination Middle East and Oceania Director at ACCIONA. “We’re able to unite the predictive power of simulation with the adaptability of AI, transforming how desalination is managed — making it smarter and more efficient.”
Broader AI Integration in Regional Operations
ACCIONA’s commitment to digital transformation in the Middle East extends beyond this new system. The company’s regional operation and maintenance team has also developed a Turbidity Prediction System that leverages AI and real-time monitoring to anticipate changes in water quality, allowing for proactive adjustments that reduce equipment damage. Furthermore, a satellite-AI model has been implemented to forecast marine hazards like algae blooms and oil spills, enhancing operational resilience and supporting smarter decision-making across all of ACCIONA’s Middle East facilities.
About ACCIONA
ACCIONA is a global company and a leader in providing renewable solutions for a decarbonized economy. Its business offerings include renewable energy, water treatment and management, eco-efficient transport and mobility systems, and resilient infrastructure. The company has been carbon neutral since 2016 and has a business presence in more than 40 countries.
Source: Zawya
