Rio Tinto and WA Government Launch Dampier Seawater Desalination Plant
The Dampier seawater desalination plant, a joint venture between Rio Tinto and the Western Australian government, aims to deliver 8 Gℓ/y of desalinated water. This project is crucial for reducing groundwater extraction and addressing environmental concerns in the West Pilbara region.
The Dampier seawater desalination plant is a 50:50 joint venture between Rio Tinto and the Western Australian government. Once operational, it will provide 8 Gℓ/y of desalinated water to the West Pilbara Water Supply Scheme, alleviating pressure on local aquifers.
Both Stage 1 and Stage 2 are designed to deliver 4 Gℓ/y each and will reduce abstraction from the Bungaroo and Millstream aquifers. Construction of Stage 1 is currently underway, with water delivery expected in late 2026, while Stage 2 is set to begin operation in 2027. This initiative responds to decreased rainfall and streamflow in the Western Pilbara over the past five years, impacting groundwater recharge and Traditional Owner groups' concerns.


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