Australia to Expand Desalination Capacity with 11 Plants Worth A$23 Billion Amid Water Demand Surge
Australia is set to expand its desalination capacity significantly to address a projected increase in household water demand by over 10% in some areas over the next decade. A report by Oxford Economics indicates that 11 desalination plants, valued at more than A$23 billion ($15 billion), will be built or expanded to cater to population growth and declining rainfall.
By 2035, an additional 190GL/year in household water demand is expected in major cities, compounded by the data center industry's water needs. Recent dry spells have reignited focus on water security and infrastructure investment.
BHP Group plans an A$840 million investment in its Olympic Dam project in South Australia, necessitating a desalination plant to support increased mining activity. Additionally, the production of green hydrogen and ammonia in arid regions like Western Australia and Queensland will further drive demand for fresh water.
