In recent years, membrane technology has become increasingly significant and has been widely used in desalination. Some membrane processes, such as reverse osmosis and electrodialysis are used commercially while others such as membrane distillation are still in the research and development stages. This study reviewed the current status of a number of solar thermal and solar PV technologies that can be coupled with water membrane-based desalination processes. Solar systems have the potential to power membrane-based desalination plants but still cannot compete favorably with fossil fuel based energy desalination. Nevertheless, these systems remain a valid option for small scale units in remote areas.