51. Ensure long-term water security through the timely planning and delivery of climate-independent infrastructure that provides fit for purpose and sustainable water services, including:
- continuing detailed planning and business case development for an additional desalination plant to increase the volume of desalinated water supply to the Integrated Water Supply Scheme and meet medium-term demand projections. Planning and business cases should demonstrate how the use of renewable energy and the application of energy-efficient design, technologies and practices are being used to achieve a target of net zero emissions by 2050
- further investigating wastewater recycling opportunities and groundwater replenishment schemes
- based on needs identified in the proposed state water strategy and regional water plans (see Recommendations 48b and 48c) and subject to business cases, implementing climate-independent water supply solutions in regional communities as required.
The WA Government responded to Foundation for a stronger tomorrow in February 2023. Recommendation 51 is fully supported. For further information please refer to the response document.
Actions:
51.149 Progress planning and delivery for the new renewable energy-powered Alkimos Seawater Desalination Plant (ASDP)
51.150 Increase wastewater recycling, targeting 35% of wastewater recycled by 2035
2/2 actions on schedule
51.149 On schedule
ASDP Stage 1 has been submitted to Infrastructure WA for assessment and State funding was confirmed in December 2023. Environmental approvals were completed in November 2023. Enabling earthworks and construction activities have commenced. Contracts have been awarded for the design and installation of below ground power supply.
51.150 On schedule
A plan of possible pathways to achieve 35% wastewater recycling by 2035 has been developed. Procurement activities have commenced for the Kwinana Water Reclamation Project upgrade to 26.7 ML/day by 2026. A feasibility study has been completed which identifies a number of opportunities to support future hydrogen industry development in Kwinana. Planning work is continuing to explore options for potable recycled water, including source, treatment requirements and conveyance to low-risk surface water sources.