Melbourne's $20 Billion Unused Desalination Plant

(don't) Waste Water! | Water Tech to Solve the World

Video Version: https://youtu.be/08GBv_Jd3ck

Melbourne's history is deeply intertwined with its water management. Starting as a small village on the Yarra River's banks, it rapidly grew during the Victorian gold rush, leading to increased water demand. To address this, the city built the world's largest artificial reservoir in 1857, signifying its commitment to resolving water issues.

However, the Millennium Drought in the early 21st century was a stark reminder of Melbourne's water vulnerability. This led to the Victorian Desalination Plant project by AquaSure, comprising Thiess, Macquarie Capital, and Suez Environnement. Despite its ambitious goals, the plant faced construction delays and financial setbacks, and remained largely unused post-completion due to sufficient rainfall.

Melbourne's water strategy is unique, with annual assessments to determine the need for desalinated water and a focus on water reuse and sustainability. Although the plant has been underutilized, it's an essential part of the city's long-term water security plan, as climate change continues to pose challenges. T

he city's proactive and adaptive approach serves as a model for urban water management. Despite being built to address water scarcity, the Victorian Desalination Plant didn't produce water for several years due to adequate rainfall. This shows how weather can dramatically change the need for certain infrastructure. Melbourne orders desalinated water annually, based on forecasts rather than immediate need.

This approach differs from the typical on-demand operation of desalination plants worldwide. Paying for the desalination plant's standby costs, even when not in use, highlights a long-term commitment to water security, emphasizing preparation over immediate utility.

#Desalination #Melbourne #WaterScarcity

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