U.A.E. – The UAE has inaugurated one of the world's largest reverse osmosis (RO) desalination plants, capable of producing 681,913 m3/d, enhancing the country's water security efforts. Known as the "NAQA'A" plant, it operates under the independent water producer (IWP) model and is situated in Umm Al Quwain. Developed through collaboration between Etihad Water and Electricity, Mubadala, and ACWA Power from Saudi Arabia, the plant underwent two phases, reaching its full production capacity by the end of 2022. The inauguration signifies a significant advancement in addressing future water challenges and reaffirms the UAE's commitment to prioritizing water security initiatives. The plant aims to meet the water needs of approximately 2 million people in the UAE's northern emirates. (Utilities Middle East)
CHINA – China's investment pivot towards the Middle East is highlighted by the completion of the Taweelah Independent Water Plant in Abu Dhabi, capable of producing 900,000 m3/d. This shift aligns with China's Belt and Road Initiative, aiming for closer integration with the energy-rich region amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions. The plant, constructed by a Chinese state-owned firm, PowerChina, is the world's largest operational membrane-driven desalination facility, easing freshwater constraints in the UAE and benefiting local livelihoods and economy. China's increased focus on the Middle East is evidenced by rising investment shares in the region, reaching 17% in 2021-23, up from 8% in 2015-2020. This investment trend is driven by strategic interests, including energy security, infrastructure development, and expanding geopolitical influence in the face of global competition. (South China Morning Post)
PHILIPPINES – The Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) is considering desalination as a solution to provide more water amidst a dry spell affecting Cebu, with 30,000 m3 lost due to the drought. Chairman Jose Daluz III expressed concern over the water deficit caused by El Niño, affecting 35,000 households in various areas serviced by MCWD. The production deficit, primarily from surface water sources like Jaclupan and Lusaran, has prompted urgent action, including the implementation of desalination projects scheduled to commence in April. These projects aim to produce 70,000 m3/d collectively, with initial outputs expected to alleviate the loss of surface water. (The Freeman)
MEXICO – Crown Electrokinetics Corp. has secured a $3.5 million contract to build slant wells for a desalination plant at the Twin Dolphin Club in Los Cabos, with construction slated to begin in the spring and finish by early fall. The project, which involves an upfront payment of $1.2 million, aims to provide fresh water to the hotel and its future residential developments within the resort. Managed by Crown's Fiber Optics division, led by Corey Boaz, the contract demonstrates the company's expansion beyond fiber optics into electrical and irrigation work. The company, consisting of Fiber Optics and Electrokinetics Film divisions, specializes in underground fiber optic networks and smart window technology, respectively. (Investing.com)
EGYPT – The General Authority for Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE) is exploring collaboration with Italy's Acea Group in the water desalination field, as indicated by a meeting between SCZONE Chairman Waleid Gamal Eldien, the Italian Ambassador to Cairo Michele Quaroni, and a delegation from Acea. Acea aims to implement water desalination and treatment plants within the SCZONE while also seeking cooperation with existing investors in the zone. Specializing in designing and establishing such plants, Acea's expertise aligns with the objectives of the SCZONE in addressing water scarcity and enhancing water treatment capabilities. The collaboration reflects a mutual interest in leveraging technology and expertise to advance water management initiatives within the SCZONE. (ZAWYA)
AZERBAIJAN – A public-private partnership in Azerbaijan will oversee a pilot project for seawater desalination to produce drinking water, with the first stage of the tender recently completed, attracting interest from eight companies. Five of these companies, deemed most suitable, have received the project conditions and are expected to submit proposals by July 1. The winning company will be selected, and a partnership agreement will be finalized after evaluation. The project, slated for Sumgayit, aims to produce 273,972 m3/d, addressing both population and economic needs. (Report News Agency)
IRAQ – Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has instructed the resolution of the Basra seawater desalination project to accelerate its completion and overcome obstacles. During a meeting in Basra, attended by project implementers and local authorities, plans were discussed to expedite the project, which has been endorsed by the government and included in the federal budget. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the project, which is set to be the world's largest seawater desalination facility, with a capacity of 1,000,000 m3/d, catering to the needs of 3-4 million people in Basra. Additionally, the project includes a power generation station to ensure energy independence. Al-Sudani's directive aims to ensure timely resolution of issues and facilitate the project's progress, benefiting the region's residents. (Shafaq)
Iraqi Prime Minister Al-Sudani directs resolution of the Basra seawater desalination project. Credit: Shafaq
INDIA – The BMC in Mumbai has struggled to attract bidders for its desalination plant project in Manori, despite re-inviting tenders for the fifth time, with a final submission date set for April 4. The plant, estimated to cost $421.1 million, aims to process 200,000 m3/d, but its construction may face delays due to the impending Lok Sabha polls and the implementation of the model code of conduct. Mumbai's reliance on its seven lakes for potable water raises concerns annually before the monsoon, prompting the revival of the desalination plant project. Despite extending bid submission dates multiple times, the BMC received only one bid, prompting further extensions to accommodate firms studying the project before bidding. (The Free Press Journal)
SPAIN – Six companies and farmers have been fined a total of $2.5 million for polluting Spain's Mar Menor lagoon by dumping brine, with penalties ranging from $20,471 to $1.195 million. The Ministry of Environment concluded investigations against offenders who illegally discharged brine from desalination plants into the lagoon or aquifers, causing pollution due to high concentrations of agricultural nitrates. These penalties, considered financial compensation under the Environmental Liability Law, aim to repair the damage caused. Additionally, businessman Isidro Soto Pedreño was fined over $208,560 for continuous discharges from his desalination plant, with investigations revealing significant brine dumping over several years. Despite efforts to combat pollution, ongoing investigations and measures are being implemented to mitigate the impact of irrigation activities on the Mar Menor lagoon, with a report expected before the summer to assess further steps. (The Olive Press)