Thank you for your explanation. For an installation a short distance off-shore the solar energy cost would not be a factor, but the cost of constructing the facility WOULD be significant. I have no idea how many calories per square inch (per time unit?) are available from the sun at sea level, much less the calculations for steam-driven generators, so I can't imagine the size collectors required to produce even a moderate amount of energy. It's just that the concept of using solar power to generate electricity, with potable water as a by-product, struck me as an idea worthy of consideration.
Sadly, ideas are a nickel a piece ... and GOOD ideas are three for a dime.
Thanks again for your description.
Fred