Techno-Economic Viability of Smart Photovoltaic-Water Treatment Systems in Peri-Urban Lagos

Strategic Insights -

Research conducted at Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria has demonstrated the techno-economic viability of smart photovoltaic-water treatment systems in peri-urban areas, specifically in peri-urban Ikorodu, Lagos State. The study aimed to address the pervasive insufficient potable water provision in the region under the State's integrated clean water initiatives. The researchers employed an energy technology foresight analysis methodology to assess the feasibility of a smart photovoltaic-water treatment system. The results showed that a combined 180 kW smart PV and 400 m3/day smart water treatment system, requiring 0.65 acres of land, could generate annually 146,000 litres of potable water. This option was deemed viable, with a payback period between 16.29 to 18.41 years, a return on investment of 5.43%, and costs savings of $73,000/year relative to the water vendor supply option.

Key Takeaways:

  • The research focused on peri-urban Lagos State, where potable water demand necessitated the development of strategic combined power and water infrastructure.
  • A smart photovoltaic-water treatment system was identified as a viable infrastructure option for peri-urban Ikorodu, Lagos State.
  • The techno-economic assessment revealed a smart PV-water plant with a combined 180 kW smart PV and 400 m3/day smart water treatment system could generate annually 146,000 litres of potable water.
  • The system required 0.65 acres of land and had a payback period between 16.29 to 18.41 years, and a return on investment of 5.43%.
  • The study recommended reducing plant operating costs to improve the viability of the smart PV-water treatment system.
  • The smart PV-water treatment system was deemed to have acceptable risk and viability at the minimum water price of $2.08/m3.

Statistics:

  • The smart PV-water plant generated annually 146,000 litres of potable water.
  • The system required 0.65 acres of land.
  • The payback period for the smart PV-water plant ranged between 16.29 to 18.41 years.
  • The return on investment for the smart PV-water plant was 5.43%.
  • The system had costs savings of $73,000/year relative to the water vendor supply option.
  • The minimum water price considered was $2.08/m3.

Sources:

  • "Techno-Economic Assessment of Smart Photovoltaic-Water Infrastructure Development for a Residential Community in Peri-Urban Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria" Journal of Digital Food, Energy & Water Systems, 2025,6(1).
  • NewsRx. Obafemi Awolowo University Researchers Discuss Research in Digital Energy Technology (Techno-Economic Assessment of Smart Photovoltaic-Water Infrastructure Development for a Residential Community in Peri-Urban Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria). Energy Weekly News. August 22, 2025; p 330.