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Desalination site studies

South East Queensland's (SEQ) variable climate and growing population mean that planning must be done now for future generations. The drought showed that to ensure water security, water sources, such as purified recycled water and desalination, are needed to provide a level of climate proofing.

Future desalination sites need to be preserved to secure long-term supplies. Scenario analysis shows that additional water sources are not likely to be required until around 2022. However, because of the growth pressures, potential sites need to be preserved today.

Priority sites have been identified at Marcoola and Lytton for investigation and reserve sites at Bribie Island and Tugun, should they also be required for investigation. These sites were selected following extensive review of engineering, cost and environmental considerations, as well as consultation with government, community and industry. All sites are publicly owned.

The proposed desalination plants will be built to avoid or minimise environmental impacts to an acceptable level. The facilities will be constructed to minimise energy use and may potentially be powered by green energy.

Technical reports

The priority and reserve sites were selected from potential sites across SEQ and assessment made taking into consideration a range of parameters including engineering, cost and environmental considerations. A number of technical reports were produced as part of this process. 

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Last updated
15 December 2011