Northern Water aims to deliver a secure, climate-resilient water source to meet the growing needs of existing and emerging industries in South Australia's Upper Spencer Gulf and Far North. It will unlock the economic growth potential of the region, particularly in industries that are critical to global decarbonisation, and will provide an alternative to water resources including the Great Artesian Basin and the River Murray.
This would be achieved by constructing a seawater desalination plant and a transfer pipeline to supply industry in the Upper Spencer Gulf and Far North.
Commencing construction of Northern Water will rely on gaining Project approvals and agreements. This includes:
- consultation with Traditional Owners, landholders, and the community
- comprehensive evaluations of environmental, engineering, and economic aspects of the Project
- commercial negotiations for Project delivery and water purchase
- statutory assessment
- market-tested proposal which will, in part, inform a Final Investment Decision (FID).
The desalination plant
If approved for Final Investment Decision, the desalination plant will be constructed to meet current demand requirements and take into account known future demand in the region.
The plant will include:
- a marine intake and outfall system
- a reverse osmosis plant
- desalination water storage
- power lines and high voltage (HV) substations to supply power to the desalination plant and pump stations.
The transfer pipeline system
A transfer system would be constructed,including a pipeline, pump stations and water storage, through the Upper Spencer Gulf and Far North, ending at Olympic Dam.
Click the image to enlarge.
Image: A concept map shows the transfer pipeline from the desalination plant site near Mullaquana Station to Olympic Dam and Carrapateena. The map shows pumping stations, storage tanks, and the pipeline's proximity to towns and sites.
Supporting infrastructure
Infrastructure such as staff amenities, additional road connections, telecommunications lines, and electricity infrastructure will be required to support the desalination plant and transfer pipeline.
Temporary facilities such as laydown areas, accommodation and site offices will be needed for construction.
A high-level design has been developed for the desalination plant and pipeline. This design will be used to inform the procurement process. The detailed design will progress post contract award.