OMAN – The inauguration of a state-of-the-art water desalination plant in Dhofar, Oman, on March 5, 2024, marks a significant step towards sustainable development in the region, sponsored by the Governor of Dhofar. The plant, located in the Wilayat of Shalim and Al Hallaniyat Islands, has a production capacity of 1,500 m3/d. Funded by Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) and the Office of the Governor of Dhofar, this initiative underscores a commitment to community development and sustainable practices. By localizing water production, the plant reduces reliance on costly and inefficient water transportation methods, setting a precedent for addressing water scarcity challenges in the region. (BNN Breaking)
MOROCCO – Morocco, is set to construct the largest seawater desalination plant in northern Morocco. The project, located in the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region, aims to supply drinking water to Tangier and potentially neighboring areas like Larache, enhancing water security and irrigation capabilities. The project reflects Morocco's commitment to sustainable water management outlined in its National Programme for Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation 2020-2027. (Atalayar)
TURKMENISTAN – On March 1, 2024, representatives from SUEZ met with Ambassador Maksat Chariev at the Embassy of Turkmenistan in France. The meeting focused on exploring potential partnerships between SUEZ and Turkmenistan, particularly in the construction of water treatment facilities, desalination plants, and water distribution infrastructure. SUEZ expressed strong interest in collaborating with Turkmenistan and proposed organizing a delegation visit for further discussions. This meeting signifies the initial stage of what could develop into a long-term partnership between Turkmenistan and SUEZ, potentially addressing water management challenges and enhancing water infrastructure in the region. (News Central Asia)
U.S.A. – The city of Corpus Christi is moving forward with plans for a proposed desalination plant, aiming to have a contractor onboard by the year's end. The project has attracted interest from around the globe, with over 175 firms engaging with city officials to explore involvement. Despite hurdles and cost increases, including additional ancillary infrastructure expenses, city officials remain confident in the project's viability, securing funding and moving toward procurement processes. With the project gaining international attention, the city aims to select contractors and progress toward construction, marking a significant milestone in addressing water scarcity challenges in the region. (Caller Times)
U.S.A. – The Moulton Niguel Water District is considering purchasing desalinated water from the Carlsbad plant in San Diego to stabilize water supplies in south Orange County. This potential deal could alleviate the financial burden on San Diego residents while offering a drought-proof water source to Orange County. Despite concerns over desalination's high cost and environmental impact, state leaders advocate for its inclusion in California's water portfolio. If successful, this partnership could set a precedent for other communities seeking innovative solutions to water scarcity issues. Additionally, water agencies are exploring paper water transfers to efficiently distribute desalinated water rights among multiple regions in need. (The Orange County Register)
XPRIZE water scarcity competition offers $119 million incentive to innovate desalination. Credit: Bureau of Reclamation
MISCELLANEOUS – XPRIZE has initiated a five-year competition with a $119 million prize pool to encourage innovations in large-scale clean water access. This competition focuses on rethinking seawater desalination systems to address the increasing global demand for water. Teams competing in the XPRIZE challenge will develop new desalination methods and materials to produce clean water sustainably and affordably. The competition comprises two tracks, with Track A aiming to produce 1,000 m3 of potable water from seawater sustainably, while Track B focuses on cost-effective treatment methods using reverse osmosis membranes. This initiative is supported by the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative, which has invested $150 million in partnership with XPRIZE to raise awareness about water scarcity. (The Chemical Engineer)
SCIENCE – Researchers from the UPC's IMEM-BRT research group are developing a thermosensitive hydrogel with applications in water desalination and biomedicine, addressing global challenges such as droughts and medical needs. The TherGel project focuses on creating a solar absorber hydrogel (SAH) capable of desalinating seawater using solar radiation. This technology absorbs water and evaporates it, achieving a significant evaporation rate and potential for clean water generation. Funded by the Spanish State Research Agency, this innovative project highlights the potential of low-cost, sustainable technologies to address pressing global issues. (News Medical Life Sciences)