R-evolution, the sustainable innovation and green-tech investment subsidiary of Hexagon AB, is embarking on a groundbreaking desalination initiative aimed at addressing the pressing issue of freshwater scarcity. Leveraging Hexagon's technology, R-evolution plans to introduce digital twin solutions to enhance operational efficiency, replicability, and scalability for desalination plants globally.

This endeavor kicks off with a strategic partnership with Desolenator, a Dutch startup at the forefront of circular solar thermal desalination systems. R-evolution's role will be to provide a digital thread for monitoring and optimizing Desolenator facilities, employing efficient and sustainable practices to advance real-time desalination operations.

The partnership's comprehensive solutions will be showcased during COP 28 at the solar thermal desalination plant in Al Ain, UAE, situated 150 km south of Dubai. The approach involves achieving net-zero water for irrigation, eliminating harmful chemicals, and implementing integrated greenhouse cooling. This innovative process transforms brackish water into clean water at a levelized cost of under $1 per 1000 liters, facilitating the cultivation of tomatoes and strawberries in the desert.

R-evolution's desalination digital twin encompasses three key applications:

1. Build – Utilizing time-lapse and AI monitoring through Hexagon's OxBlue camera to enhance visibility and efficiency during plant construction.
2. Operate – Employing mobile asset performance management with Hexagon's RevX solution to expedite reactions through actionable insights and work order management.
3. Optimise – Creating a 3D digital twin using Hexagon's Leica BLK2GO reality capture sensor to visualize workflows and optimize operations and maintenance.

Erik Josefsson, CEO of R-evolution, powered by Hexagon, emphasized the critical role of innovative partnerships with cutting-edge technologies in addressing water challenges globally. The collaborative project with Desolenator aims to deliver groundbreaking results for ensuring clean water access across the planet by combining reality capture solutions and asset performance management software.