AWWA ACE62978

This slide presentation outlines current issues and costs in the rapidly evolving landscape of seawater desalination. Objectives of the presentation include: summarize some of the current issues associated with seawater desalination in America; educate about seawater desalination in general; and, stimulate ideas and discussions. A history of seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) is given, starting with pre-1997 small essential plants such as Catalina, California, and emergency facilities at Santa Barbara, CA. 1997-2000 highlights a characteristic plant such as Tampa Bay Water/ Big Bend; 2000-2004 characteristic plants of 2 to 50 mgd such as San Luis Obispo County (CA): 2 to 5 mgd; Brazos River Authority (TX): 25 mgd; and, San Diego County Water Authority (CA): 50 mgd. Characteristics of plants from 2004 to the present include: total of 30+ projects; public and private development; locations: Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, Interior, Pacific; and eleven states: CA, FL, GA, HI, MA, NH, NJ, NV, NY, VA, TX. Contemporary issues are listed, and various water quality issues are outlined such as: boron; algae/algal toxins; emerging disinfection byproducts (DBPs); storm water runoff; and, water temperature. Environmental concerns are outlined, along with intake/discharge alternatives, corrosion control, permeate distribution, regulatory issues, and a cost comparison. Includes tables.