Jacobs, a global engineering firm, has been appointed by Singapore’s national water agency, PUB, to conduct a feasibility study for a potential new desalination plant. The study aims to bolster Singapore’s long-term water security by assessing land-optimised and dual-mode desalination designs, which can treat both seawater and freshwater.
The study will focus on innovative solutions to maximise land efficiency in Singapore’s densely populated urban environment. This includes exploring the integration of multi-storey buildings or deeper basements to house treatment facilities. Jacobs will provide a comprehensive range of services, including conceptual design development, treatment technology assessment, construction methodology analysis, lifecycle cost evaluation, and risk assessment.
Patrick Hill, Jacobs’ President of Global Operations, highlighted Singapore’s reputation for integrated water management and resilient infrastructure planning. He stated, “By combining our global desalination and water reuse capabilities with strong local delivery capability, we’re able to explore innovative solutions that optimise scarce land resources whilst supporting the nation’s future water security needs.”
Jacobs has a longstanding relationship with PUB, having contributed to several critical water infrastructure projects in Singapore, such as the Deep Tunnel Sewerage System and the Tuas Water Reclamation Plant. The firm’s expertise in desalination plant design and maintenance has been demonstrated in significant projects across the region, including the Sydney and Gold Coast Desalination Plants in Australia.
The feasibility study represents a crucial step in ensuring Singapore’s water resilience amidst challenges posed by climate change and population growth. Patrick Hill is set to share further insights on sustainable water infrastructure at the Singapore International Water Week on 16 June.
