AUSTRALIA – The Australian federal government has announced funding for a $230 million project to deliver desalinated water to support renewable industries in South Australia. The Northern Water Supply project aims to construct a 260,000 m3/d desalination plant in the Spencer Gulf and a 600 km pipeline to the state’s far north. This project will provide a climate-independent water source, reducing pressure on groundwater and the Murray River. Federal funds of $65 million will contribute to a $230 million package, with additional funding from the South Australian Government and industrial stakeholders. If feasible, the project will support critical minerals processing and renewable green hydrogen production, with operations expected to begin in 2028. (Government News)
OMAN – Nama Power and Water Procurement Company (Nama PWP) has signed a $325 million deal for the construction of the Al Ghubrah 3 desalination plant in Oman, which is set to become the largest desalination facility in the country. The plant will have a production capacity of 300,000 m3/d and is scheduled to begin operations in the first quarter of 2027. It will cover 70.400 m2 and include a 45,000 m3 potable water reservoir, utilizing reverse osmosis technology. The project, led by the Capital Desalination Company, a consortium of GS Inima, Jemaih Energy, and Sogex Company, represents a significant step towards enhancing Oman's water security and aligns with Vision Oman 2040 goals. Nama PWP and its partners are focused on sustainability and innovation, aiming to meet the region's growing water and energy demands while contributing to Oman's carbon neutrality and renewable energy objectives. (ZAWYA)
EGYPT – Egypt has completed the world's largest water desalination and drainage station, known as the Delta Station. The New Delta agricultural wastewater treatment plant, developed by a joint venture of Metito, Orascom Construction, Arab Contractors and Hassam Allam Construction, boasts a capacity of 7.5 million m3/d and aims to support agricultural expansion and reduce pollution in Lake Mariout and the Mediterranean coast. The project will reclaim and cultivate 500,000 acres in the western Delta, improve agricultural productivity, and establish new communities. Additionally, Egypt's broader efforts include 14 seawater desalination plants with a total capacity of 476,000 m3/d, contributing to the country's goal of enhancing water resources and mitigating environmental issues. This infrastructure initiative reflects Egypt's commitment to sustainable development and water security through advanced technology and large-scale projects. (Egypt Today)
The world’s largest plant of its type, the New Delta Agricultural Wastewater Treatment Plant in Egypt, serves as a fundamental component of Egypt’s water agenda and strategy for expanding agricultural area. Credit: Metito
MOROCCO – Morocco is advancing its ambitious water security plan by leveraging renewable energy to power its desalination plants, ensuring sustainability and potentially lowering production costs. At the 10th World Water Forum in Indonesia, Minister of Equipment and Water Nizar Baraka highlighted Morocco’s ambitious desalination strategy. The country currently operates 15 desalination plants producing 526,027 m3/d, with plans to build the continent’s largest desalination plant near Casablanca. By 2030, Morocco aims to produce over 4.66 million m3/d, increasing to nearly 5.48 million m3/d by 2045, while prioritizing sustainability and cost-efficiency through renewable energy integration. (Morocco World News)
PHILIPPINES – The Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) has postponed the commissioning of its Opao desalination plant due to high chlorine levels. Originally set for May 17, 2024, the launch will be delayed as the facility undergoes further fine-tuning to reduce chlorine residuals, which were found to be eight milligrams per liter instead of the safe level of 0.7 milligrams per liter. The plant, which is expected to eventually provide 25,000 m3/d, will supply fresh water to about 15,000 households in Mandaue City. Initial delays were also caused by excavation concerns that could disrupt traffic. MCWD aims to use this desalinated water to supplement its existing groundwater and surface water supplies. (Sunstar)
SAINT KITTS and NEVIS – Nevis is rapidly advancing toward launching its first desalination plant, a project funded by the UAE and part of a broader initiative involving 16 Caribbean islands, including St Kitts and Nevis. Minister Spencer Brand and Director Floyd Robinson recently toured the construction site, noting significant daily progress and the dedication of the project team. The plant, located on the eastern side of Nevis, is expected to provide an additional 227 m3/d by the end of June. (WIC News)