Qualitative Study of Public Acceptance of Renewable Energy-Based Desalination Technology in Coastal Areas

Koffi Makaya; Omar Jallow; Mariama Bah

Authors

Koffi Makaya University of Science and Technology of Gabon Author
Omar Jallow University of Gambia, Kanifing Author
Mariama Bah University of Banjul, Banjul Author

Keywords:

Desalination, Renewable Energy, Social Acceptance

Abstract

Renewable energy-powered desalination (RE-desalination) presents a potential pathway for sustainable freshwater supply in water-stressed coastal communities by coupling renewable electricity and thermal sources with membrane and thermal desalination processes; however, public acceptance is a crucial determinant of whether such technologies can be deployed at scale, as social perceptions shape siting decisions, local cooperation, and the legitimacy of projects. This qualitative study synthesizes interview-based evidence and narrative analyses from coastal communities, policymakers, and practitioners to explore perceptions, perceived benefits and risks, trust in institutions, equity considerations, and factors influencing acceptance of RE-desalination projects. Findings indicate that communities generally favor desalination that reduces water scarcity and leverages local renewable resources, yet express concerns about cost, environmental impacts (marine brine, ecosystem change), visual and land-use footprints, and distributional fairness; acceptance is higher where projects demonstrate transparent governance, participatory planning, clear livelihood co-benefits, and adaptive pricing schemes. The study recommends integrated community engagement strategies, co-design of benefit-sharing arrangements, robust environmental monitoring, and regulatory clarity to increase social acceptance and ensure equitable, context-sensitive deployment of renewable energy-based desalination in coastal areas.

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