The economics of desalination are changing rapidly and are increasingly found to compete closely with more conventional water production methods.
We can provide experience and services for all aspects of desalination technology, whether the plant is on the mainland, an island or offshore with a capacity ranging from a few cubic metres to hundreds of thousands of cubic metres of product water per day.
We have in-depth theoretical knowledge and practical experience of a wide range of desalination processes, including the thermal processes associated with power production, stand-alone reverse osmosis and hybrid plants.
Although the main aspects of a project are feasibility study, preliminary and detailed design and construction supervision, we also undertake master plan level assessments of desalination processes which are under consideration. This includes the forecast increase in water demand which will determine the likely timing and capacity of the next incremental step in production capacity, practicality of construction of a desalination plant, blending arrangements and the proposed use of desalinated water.
We also carry out a detailed analysis of water source quality and availability (brackish water and sea water), size of plant, advances in desalination technology, costs and the availability of energy. We are also able to provide services for desalination technology (especially membrane technology) which is being increasingly applied for the recovery of wastewater (e.g. treated sewage effluent) for commercial or domestic purposes.
Mott MacDonald has in-depth experience of intake design such as open seawater intakes, screen intakes and design of the pre-treatment stages which are vital for the long-term life of the desalination process.
Strategy and solutions
Delivering investments
Our track record with some of the world’s largest desalination plants gives us an in-depth understanding of project risk and the associated commercial consequences. We are thus ideally equipped to advise on procurement strategy and supply chain management.
Our world class engineers can bring significant whole life cost savings without jeopardising project schedule.
In the construction period, we offer comprehensive contract management, site supervision and commissioning services.
Optimising investments
We provide a fully integrated consultancy service capable of optimising the performance of new and existing assets.
Our services
- Investment appraisal
- Technology assessment
- Site selection
- Environmental impact assessments
- Risk assessment
- Plant design and specification
- Project management
- Procurement
- Construction supervision
- Commissioning services
- Process optimisation
- Condition and rehabilitation surveys
- Due diligence surveys
For more fresh thinking on desalination, see our brochure here.
