However, these have been upgraded and improved (Hamed, 2004), notably in the UAE with increased capacity. All of the desalination plants are powered by gas turbines, and also use backpressure steam turbines. The backpressure steam being produced, is harnessed as an energy source.
Continuous improvements to desalination are made to cut costs, as well as emissions. Also, the salt extraction processes have moved from simple desalination and distillation, to pre-treatment and salt-extraction through filters and membranes before distillation (Hamed, 2004; National Research Council,2008). Desalination plants are both energy and cost-intensive units of production. The MSF process plants have been improved over the years, and resulted in much more cost-effective desalination plants (Hamed, 2004; Dailey, 2011). Costs involved include capital outlay, operation, maintenance as well as energy costs. Technological improvements can ensure longer lifespans of plants, as well as lower carbon and heat emissions (Al-Shayji, 1998; Hamed, 2004).
Dailey (2011) reports that the UAE is currently testing the option of using solar power to drive its desalination plants. The need for this cost-cutting power source is twofold. One, it will save a lot of money for the government, and the water authority. As the need for water increases, due to an increase in the population as well as further development. Another reason for this move is that solar power is a much cleaner type of energy. It is easier to harness the heat of the sun, considering the amount of sunshine days in the UAE sees, Solar power by itself, is a clean energy form.
Where water is needed and not naturally found, the only option is desalination (Hamed, 2004). While desalination is good in providing water, it comes with adverse effects on the environment as well. The desalination process can affect the environment negatively. One area of concern is the marine life near desalination plants (Al Serkal, 2007; Dolnicar & Schafer, 2007).