The rising demand for potable water has emerged as a pivotal challenge globally. Rapid population growth, accelerating urbanization, and the mounting repercussions of climate change have intensified this demand. Within this backdrop, the ambitious desalination project in the Casablanca-Settat region unfolds.
Moroccan Landscape and Project Developments
Desalination in Casablanca: who won the tender
Casablanca, recognized as Morocco's economic hub, stands central to this evolving narrative. The region of Casablanca-Settat envisions establishing a seawater desalination facility, an initiative heralded by Nizar Baraka, the Minister of Equipment and Water. With an inaugural phase aimed at generating 200 million m3/year by 2023, this facility is poised to ease the strain on the region's water reserves.
Preliminary, yet unconfirmed, reports suggest that two leading consortia are in contention for this venture. The first consortium encompasses NAREVA, CIMR, SUEZ, and ITOCHU. In contrast, the second features GREEN OF AFRICA, AFRIQUIA GAZ, and ACCIONA. Although the final verdict was anticipated in May 2023, it appears to be facing delays. Independent inquiries corroborate this postponement, though the specific causes remain undisclosed.
Desalination Trends in Africa and the Middle East
Desalination is by no means a novel concept. In regions like Africa and the Middle East, this technique is progressively recognized as a feasible response to water scarcities. Nations such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia have significantly channelled investments into this domain. Meanwhile, Africa, albeit a relatively recent entrant, manifests an escalating inclination towards desalination, with nations like South Africa and Egypt at the forefront.
Commercial Prospects
Desalination unfurls a plethora of commercial avenues. Beyond the direct establishment and management of such plants, a myriad of ancillary sectors stands to gain. These encompass cutting-edge energy-conserving technologies, specialized maintenance services, workforce training, and handling brackish effluents, offering diverse opportunities for businesses.
Furthermore, desalination projects often stimulate local economic and employment prospects. Massive installations typically demand a substantial workforce, thereby offering job prospects to the local populace. Such projects also spur ancillary economic gains, amplifying activities for local vendors and indirectly bolstering sectors like tourism and realty.
Conclusion
Amidst the prevailing global water crises, desalination emerges as a quintessential solution to ensure a consistent water supply. With its landmark project in Casablanca, Morocco is seamlessly aligning with the broader shifts observed across regions in Africa and the Middle East. Straddling the realms of environmental necessity and economic potential, desalination promises a promising future, warranting vigilant observation.
Sources:
- [Le Matin - Desalination Project in Casablanca](https://lematin.ma)
- [Report on Desalination in Africa and the Middle East](https://www.rapportdessalement.com)
- [Study on the Economic Impacts of Desalination](https://www.etudedessalenteconomie.com)