Doheny Desalination Project
South Coast Water District is continuing to evaluate an ocean water desalination project as a local, drought-proof, and high-quality water supply. Currently, South Coast Water District imports 85 to 100 percent of its drinking water, causing vulnerability during droughts, supply shortages, and potentially during natural disasters.
Unlike traditional desalination facilities, the Doheny facility would use advanced slant wells that protect marine life by drawing water from beneath the ocean floor. Environmentalists and state regulators prefer this technology. Built into the system being considered by the District is also an energy recovery process, resulting in 45 to 55 percent less energy usage than systems without that feature.
While the Doheny Ocean Desalination Project has not yet been approved by the District Board for construction, it does have bipartisan support from legislators and elected officials, regulatory support, environmental community support, and public support. The District Board is currently meeting with water agencies, water purveyors, and municipalities to discuss partnership opportunities that would make the Doheny Ocean Desalination a reality for District customers.
Environmental Impact
Unlike traditional desal plants, the Doheny facility would use slant wells that protect marine life by drawing water from beneath the ocean floor.
Preferred Technology
Using technology preferred by environmentalists & regulators, the project could provide up to 5 million gallons per day to local water agencies.
Less Energy Use
The Doheny Project also has an energy recovery process being considered that could result in 45 to 55 percent less energy usage than systems without it.
