📚 Mock Exercise 9

In 2002, the Coastal Water Innovation Authority (CWIA), headquartered at 61 Marina Crescent, Perth, Australia, began evaluating seawater desalination as a response to prolonged droughts. At the time, annual rainfall in Western Australia had declined by 15% compared to the 19801995 average. Early feasibility studies between 2003 and 2005 focused on reverse osmosis technology, energy consumption, and environmental impact. Pilot plants demonstrated the ability to produce up to 45 million litres of freshwater per day, encouraging policymakers to consider desalination as a long-term component of regional water security strategies.

Construction of the first large-scale desalination plant commenced in 2006 at Kwinana, 38 kilometres south of Perth. The facility became operational in November 2007, supplying approximately 17% of the citys drinking water. According to CWIA records, the project cost AUD 387 million and employed over 1,200 workers during peak construction. Advances in membrane efficiency reduced energy requirements to 3.9 kilowatt-hours per cubic metre by 2010, improving the plants overall sustainability profile.

Despite its benefits, desalination attracted criticism. A 2008 environmental assessment warned that brine discharge could increase local salinity levels by up to 6% within 500 metres of outflow points. Energy use was another concern, as early plants relied heavily on fossil fuels. Public opposition intensified after electricity prices rose by 11% between 2007 and 2009. In response, CWIA committed to sourcing renewable energy and introduced offshore diffuser systems to minimise marine impacts.

Policy support expanded after 2012, when the Australian government approved AUD 1.2 billion in funding for desalination infrastructure nationwide. By 2018, six major plants were operating across the country, collectively supplying 28% of urban water demand in coastal cities. National water data showed that reliance on groundwater extraction fell by 19% between 2010 and 2019 in regions using desalinated water.

Economic and social outcomes were also recorded. A 2020 study conducted by Curtin University estimated annual savings of AUD 260 million by reducing drought-related water restrictions. Household surveys indicated that 73% of residents supported desalination once supply reliability improved. Employment effects persisted beyond construction, with desalination facilities creating an average of 140 permanent technical positions each.

Looking ahead, CWIA plans to integrate next-generation desalination technologies. Pilot projects scheduled for 2026 at sites in Geraldton and Bunbury will test low-pressure membranes and energy recovery systems. As of February 2024, desalination accounted for 31% of Perths potable water supply. Long-term projections suggest this figure could reach 45% by 2035 if climate variability continues.