Although water shortages and the unbalanced allocation of resources in Palestine’s West Bank are well understood, water quality is rarely mentioned. Yet, the critical task of maintaining clean water for drinking and irrigation is increasingly difficult given the delicate political situation. 

Sobhi Yaghi, the Water Quality Monitoring Officer at Jericho Municipality, has 15 years of experience testing water resources and ensuring compliance with water quality standards. He tells us how the municipality maintains water quality under difficult circumstances and reveals their future plans. 

Could you give us a background to Jericho and its water resources?

Located in the Jordan Valley, Jericho—known in Arabic as Ariha—is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities with between 35,000 and 38,000 residents. The city lies 250–260 meters below sea level, making it one of the lowest and warmest inhabited places on earth. The hot, arid climate with high evaporation rates and scarce rainfall, averaging less than 150mm annually, poses significant challenges for sustainable water resource management.

The city relies almost entirely on groundwater with its primary source, Ein Sultan Spring, providing an average flow rate of 750 cubic meters per hour. A number of groundwater wells, pumping stations, storage reservoirs, and distribution pipelines complement the municipal water supply. The water network supports extensive agriculture, accounting for over 60% of total water use, domestic consumption of 35%, with small-scale industries and services consuming the remainder.

Jericho is renowned for its rich historical significance, attracting tourists through its natural landscapes, hot springs, and ancient ruins. This combination of cultural heritage and water resource challenges makes Jericho a unique case study for integrated water quality and resource management in arid/semi-arid environments.

How do you monitor water quality and spot potential problems?

Water quality monitoring is fundamental to our water management strategy. The Jericho Municipality Water Quality Laboratory undertakes sampling, laboratory analysis, and data evaluation using internationally recognized protocols to give accurate and reliable results. 

We collect water samples on a regular schedule from different points — including groundwater wells, the municipal drinking water network, irrigation systems, and treated wastewater outlets. The municipal laboratory analyses these for key physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters such as salinity (electrical conductivity), pH, turbidity, residual chlorine, nitrate, heavy metals, and bacterial indicators (total coliforms and E. coli). 

In addition, specialized analyses in accredited external laboratories ensure compliance with national and WHO standards. Our dedicated wastewater laboratory performs routine checks because 65% of treated wastewater is reused for irrigating date palms.

To predict potential problems, we rely on historical water quality data, seasonal trend analysis, and GIS-based mapping of contamination risks. For example, we monitor salinity fluctuations during dry seasons, track industrial discharge patterns, and assess potential impacts from agricultural and urban activities. Sudden deviations in parameter readings trigger immediate field investigations and corrective measures in coordination with environmental authorities. This proactive monitoring framework supports preventive strategies that protect public health and sustain the region’s scarce water resources. 

Some of the problems and solutions include:

Salinity and Dissolved Solids

Groundwater wells in the Jericho area show highly variable total dissolved solids (TDS), ranging between 800 and 2,500 (values fluctuate between wells and over time in the same well). By contrast, the Ain Sultan Spring exhibits much lower TDS of about 380. 

High and variable salinity is driven by over-extraction, limited recharge, and local hydrogeological conditions, and affects drinking water quality and agricultural productivity. To manage salinity and TDS, we:

• Actively blend lower-salinity spring water (Ain Sultan) with higher-salinity well water before distribution to keep overall salinity within acceptable limits. 
• Monitor TDS continuously to detect spikes, regulate abstraction rates to prevent further intrusion, and promote salt-tolerant crops and efficient irrigation.

Industrial Contamination/Pollutants

A significant portion of industrial pollution in Jericho stems from the desalination units used by local manufacturers, which discharge brine into municipal sewers. In the wastewater treatment plant, the high salinity disrupts the biological processes — particularly the bacteria essential for breaking down organic matter — reducing treatment efficiency and compromising effluent quality. To combat this, we:

• Work with industrial operators to implement proper brine management including on-site pre-treatment, controlled disposal outside the sewer network, or reuse in non-sensitive industrial or agricultural applications.
• Coordinate with regulatory bodies to establish guidelines and enforce local regulations requiring factories and saline well operators to dispose of brine safely through specialized treatment systems.
• Conduct awareness campaigns on the impact of brine on wastewater treatment.
• Continuous monitoring of salinity at key points in the sewer system to identify high-load discharges and take immediate corrective action.

Aging Infrastructure/Corrosion

Many municipal water pipes and storage tanks in Jericho are decades old, and often made of galvanized steel or asbestos-cement. Corrosion leads to iron, manganese, and rust particles leaching into the water, causing discoloration, unpleasant taste, and health risks. Old joints and cracks also allow infiltration of contaminants from soil or sewage lines. We implement:

• Gradual replacement of old pipelines with modern PVC, HDPE, or ductile iron pipes, and lining/rehabilitating storage tanks with corrosion-resistant materials. 
• Implementing a preventive maintenance plan and leak detection system to minimize pipe failures.

Poor Wastewater Treatment

Approximately 35% of Jericho’s population remains unconnected to municipal sewers and relies on cesspits or uncontrolled discharge, so untreated wastewater infiltrates groundwater or nearby wadis. We want to:

• Expand the sewer network to cover all unserved areas, particularly peripheral communities. 
• Upgrade Jericho’s wastewater treatment plant to include tertiary treatment processes and dedicated systems for managing high-salinity brine prior to entering biological treatment units. 
• Establish decentralized wastewater treatment units in areas difficult to connect to the main network, such as constructed wetlands or compact modular treatment plants.

Lack of Data

There is a shortage of reliable, up-to-date water quality and quantity data in Jericho. Existing records are often fragmented, outdated, or incomplete, making it difficult to assess current conditions, identify trends, or respond to emerging issues. We intend to:

• Establish a continuous water quality monitoring network using online sensors to track key parameters such as pH, turbidity, conductivity, residual chlorine, and temperature. 
• Develop a centralized digital water quality database accessible to relevant authorities, municipalities, and laboratories. 
• Implement regular and standardized sampling protocols, including advanced laboratory testing for chemical, microbiological, and emerging contaminants. 
• Train municipal staff and water operators in rapid field testing, data recording, and early warning response procedures.

Other Issues

To counteract discharge from Israeli settlements, we intend:

• Continuous monitoring of inflow points from upstream areas.
• Engagement with international organizations to enforce wastewater treatment standards.
• Construction of local interception and treatment systems where required.

For over-abstraction of groundwater, we support:

• Introduction of pumping quotas and improved monitoring of abstraction rates.
• Promotion of alternative water sources, including treated wastewater for irrigation.
• Initiation of managed aquifer recharge projects to prevent saline intrusion.

Finally, to combat agricultural runoff, we want to:

• Implement of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and precision fertilization.
• Establish of buffer zones between farmlands and water sources.
• Promote of environmentally friendly farming practices.

What are the main barriers?

Political difficulties mean a limited control over upstream sources, including settlements, which complicates the enforcement of wastewater regulations. Coordination with multiple authorities and international organizations can be slow and challenging.

The lack of financial resources limits rehabilitation and expansion projects, and makes it difficult to upgrade infrastructure, modernize treatment plants, and install monitoring systems. A lack of expertise and trained personnel in advanced water treatment, monitoring technologies, and aquifer recharge techniques requires continuous capacity-building programs for municipal staff and local engineers.

Other barriers include limited understanding of water conservation and pollution prevention among the public and water users. Technical limitations include challenges in accessing certain groundwater sources or implementing Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) projects due to geological conditions. Finally, environmental factors mean saline intrusion and seasonal fluctuations in water availability can restrict solution effectiveness.

What organisations do you work with?

Jericho Municipality collaborates with several organizations to improve water quality, support infrastructure development, and enhance water management. Nationally, the Palestinian Water Authority (PWA) and Palestinian Environmental Quality Authority (EQA) work together. Local NGOs and Research Centres implement awareness campaigns, community engagement, and technical studies related to water quality. A number of international organisations offer technical support, funding, and guidance, including:

• United Nations Development Programme (UNDP):
• United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA): 
• European Union (EU) and Donor Agencies: 
• World Health Organization (WHO): 
• Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA): 
• United States Agency for International Development (USAID): 
• International Water Management Institutes (IWMI, GIZ, etc.): 

These partnerships help Jericho Municipality address water quality challenges, implement modern technologies, and comply with international standards.

What new technologies/processes would you like to adopt?

There are a number of new technologies and improvements we would like to see:

Advanced Water Treatment Technologies

• Reverse Osmosis (RO) and Nanofiltration: To treat brackish groundwater and high-salinity water sources.
• Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs): For removal of micropollutants, pharmaceuticals, and emerging contaminants.
• Smart Disinfection Systems: Automated, sensor-controlled chlorination or UV disinfection to maintain safe water quality levels.

Smart Water Monitoring and Management

• SCADA and IoT-based Systems: Real-time monitoring of water quality, pressure, and flow across the distribution network.
• Automated Leak Detection: AI-based sensors to detect and locate leaks rapidly, reducing water loss.
• Centralized Data Management Platforms: Integration of GIS, water quality, and usage data for decision-making and predictive maintenance.

Sustainable Groundwater Management

• Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR): Controlled infiltration of treated wastewater to replenish aquifers and prevent saline intrusion.
• Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR): Temporary storage of surplus water for seasonal use.
• Groundwater Modelling Tools: Advanced software for simulation, prediction, and scenario planning.

Energy-Efficient and Eco-Friendly Solutions

• Solar-Powered Pumping Systems: Reducing dependency on electricity and diesel for water abstraction.
• Green Infrastructure for Stormwater Management: Constructed wetlands and bioswales for natural treatment and recharge.
• Resource Recovery from Wastewater: Nutrient recovery and sludge-to-energy processes to create circular economy benefits.

Community Engagement and Digital Solutions

• Smart Metering and Consumption Feedback: To promote water conservation among households and farms.
• Digital Platforms for Public Awareness: Mobile apps and dashboards to report issues, provide alerts, and share water-saving tips.

In line with the challenges and future aspirations, I am considering a doctoral thesis exploring innovative strategies for enhancing groundwater resources in arid and semi-arid regions with treated wastewater and industrial effluents.

Against the Odds: Improving Water Quality in Palestine’s West Bank
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September 3, 2025 — Energy Recovery (NASDAQ: ERII) recently reported contract awards totaling approximately $31 million for its PX® Pressure Exchanger® (PX) energy recovery devices for multiple seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination projects in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and other GCC countries. Once completed, the plants will provide over 1.6 million cubic meters per day of fresh water to a hyper-arid region with a rapidly growing population. Energy Recovery is expected to fulfill contract orders by the end of Q4 2025.

This latest round of contracts underscores Energy Recovery’s long-time leadership in desalination innovation around the globe. With a reputation for durability and performance, their PX pressure exchanger technology provides plant operators with a reliable solution to drive down costs associated with energy-intensive SWRO plants. The combined plants in the Gulf region will save an estimated 1,724 GWh/year, which translates to 832,849 tons of CO2  annually.

“We continue to see increased competitiveness in desalination related technologies thus driving demand for our market leading suite of Energy Recovery PX products,” said Rodney Clemente, Senior Vice President of Water at Energy Recovery. “Fresh water is such a vital commodity that plant operators simply cannot risk downtime or unnecessary disruptions in production. The design of the PX gives it unmatched performance in harsh, corrosive environments. At the same time, it has the double benefit of saving operators money while minimizing harmful carbon emissions. Drought-prone regions around the world continue to trust our leading technologies to ensure plant owners are maximizing their operational savings and sustainability targets.”

Energy Recovery’s PX reduces energy use by up to 60% in SWRO desalination facilities, has a peak efficiency of 98%, and boasts an industry-leading 30-year design life with no scheduled maintenance.

Energy Recovery Awarded $31 Million in Desalination Contracts in the Gulf Region
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SPML Infra Limited has secured a significant new project worth Rs. 258 crore (USD 30.2 million) from the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB). The project was awarded to the consortium of SPML Infra Limited and JWIL Infra Limited, which successfully emerged as the lowest bidder and received the Letter of Acceptance (LoA).

The comprehensive project involves several critical components aimed at strengthening water infrastructure in the region. One of the central features is the construction, testing, and commissioning of a new reservoir in Porur, envisioned to play a vital role as a key water storage facility. To ensure efficient and reliable water transfer and distribution, the project also includes the development of strategically located pumping station. A range of ancillary works will be undertaken to establish the supporting infrastructure necessary for the seamless operation of the reservoir and pumping station. These works will primarily focus on the regions of Perur and Porur, townships in Chennai.

A key highlight of this project is the long-term Operation and Maintenance (O&M) component. The consortium will be responsible for the upkeep and efficient functioning of the entire infrastructure over a period of 20 years, ensuring sustained service delivery and asset longevity.

Commenting on this landmark development, Mr. Subhash Sethi, Chairman, SPML Infra Limited, said:

“We are delighted to have been entrusted with this critical project by the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board. This order reinforces SPML Infra’s leadership and technical expertise in developing sustainable water infrastructure across the country. With urban centres like Chennai experiencing rapid growth and rising demand for reliable water supply, we are committed to delivering high-quality engineering solutions that ensure efficient water management and long-term service delivery. Our continued focus on innovation, project execution, and operational excellence will help meet the expectations of our esteemed client.”

This project marks another milestone in SPML Infra’s mission to contribute meaningfully to India’s water security and urban infrastructure development.

SPML Infra Secures Rs. 258 Crore Water Infrastructure Project from Chennai Metro Water
H2O Team

Sulzer announces the acquisition of Davies and Mills, a leading electromechanical services (EMS) provider based in Bahrain. With this acquisition, Sulzer expands its regional footprint in the Middle East to six service locations, welcoming 53 former Davies and Mills employees to the Sulzer family in Bahrain. The acquisition was concluded in January 2025, bringing exceptional expertise to Sulzer’s portfolio.

Sulzer continues to invest in the Middle East, adding its sixth service center in six years, significantly expanding its regional footprint. The expansion underscores Sulzer’s commitment to establishing full-service, in-region capabilities supporting the needs of industrial customers. The new facility offers maintenance and repair services for rotating equipment – including generators, alternators, motors, and pumps – while strengthening its footprint in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

Premier electromechanical service offering

The combined strengths of Davies and Mills’ technical expertise and Sulzer’s extensive network position the company as a premier electromechanical service provider in the Middle East. With enhanced solutions throughout the entire lifecycle of critical industrial equipment the company is well positioned to meet the region’s diverse needs.

Ravin Pillay-Ramsamy, President of Sulzer’s Services Division emphasized the company’s broader vision: “This acquisition supports Sulzer’s long-term strategy to strongly position our service capabilities in growth markets such as the Middle East. Davies and Mills brings exceptional expertise to our portfolio. Combined with Sulzer’s regional footprint and global network, we create a powerful partner for our customers’ benefit. We’re excited to welcome Davies and Mills employees to Sulzer – their can-do spirit perfectly complements our commitment to excellence and customer-focused culture.

Unlocking potential to seize growth opportunities

Davies and Mills General Manager, Martin Stratford, commented, “Joining Sulzer represents an exciting new chapter for our team and our customers. With Sulzer’s extensive resources and global network, we are confident that this partnership will unlock new opportunities and elevate the quality and reach of our services across the region.”

Sulzer further strengthens Middle East presence with acquisition of Davies and Mills in Bahrain
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Sulzer has opened a new Service Center in Al Ahmadi, Kuwait, the first-of-its-kind in Kuwait to provide around-the-clock engineering services for all brands of pumps and rotating equipment. The newly opened Service Center supports over 1,500 Sulzer pumps already installed in local plants across Kuwait, while further servicing pumps from other brands. This is the first time an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) offers such comprehensive services in the region.

Sulzer leverages the strategic location and resources of Khuff General Trading & Contracting Company’s Al Ahmadi Service Center to ensure 24/7 service availability for customers in the region. Companies operating in the energy and water industries can rely on comprehensive support across their entire equipment range. Services at the new facility include standard part and component repairs, reverse engineering, strip-down and inspection services, advanced diagnostics and cutting-edge technologies for multiple pump brands.

Drawing on its global expertise, the new Sulzer service facility will also extend its services to rotating equipment such as gas and steam turbines, compressors and motors. Access to quality service support ensures customers in the region can benefit from rapid turnaround times and higher operational productivity.

Sulzer’s Services Division President Ravin Pillay-Ramsamy said: “This service expansion demonstrates our ongoing commitment to customers and partners in the region. With innovative solutions and expert support tailored to their unique challenges, we optimize their operations holistically and create added value by resolving issues across their entire equipment portfolio. We’re proud to offer broad technical capabilities at our Kuwait Service Center.”

David Martin, Head of Sales at Sulzer Middle East, added: “Our new facility ensures closer collaboration, faster repairs and retrofits, and fewer unplanned downtimes for operators. Keeping downtime to a minimum will help ensure reduced operational costs, allowing our customers to stay ahead of the competition. We look forward to welcoming our valued customers in Kuwait to our Al Ahmadi Service Center.”

Sulzer announces opening of new pioneering Service Center in Kuwait
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GF Corys aims to supply the Middle East with piping solutions that safeguard water resources, enhance energy efficiency, and reduce water loss. Now, the company’s Dubai facility has been extended to 2,000m2 – four times its original size – in order to offer a broader prefabrication portfolio in the region.

In addition to offering a wide range of flow solutions, GF Corys is capable of prefabricating thermoplastic components that are tailored to the specific needs of the customer. During the expansion of its facility, the company therefore installed an SWFM-630 Side Wall Fusion Machine by GF Piping Systems to meet the local demand for water treatment and desalination applications.

For these applications, customers previously relied on international prefabrication sites to source specialized thermoplastic components such as manifolds. As the first machine of its type in the region, the SWFM-630 now introduces additional capabilities that increase customer proximity, speed up projects, and avoid the CO2 emissions associated with international shipping.

Bart Van Bastelaere, Managing Director at GF Corys, comments on the updated facility. “When it comes to protecting our water resources, desalination and water treatment technology are invaluable tools. We are therefore extremely pleased that we can locally produce crucial components for these applications that are made of long-lasting and corrosion-resistant thermoplastics. This reduces the workload for the customer and streamlines projects that add value to the region.”

GF Corys is focused on delivering world-class piping solutions across utilities, industry, and building technology to a dynamic Middle East landscape. Corys brings over 40 years of local knowledge and experience, an integral part of building much of the critical piping infrastructure. This expertise is now bolstered by the global technology, innovation, and scale of GF Piping Systems.

GF Corys extends its facility in Dubai for additional prefabrication capabilities
H2O Team

Advanced Watertek, a leading water treatment original equipment manufacturer (OEM), made a significant impact throughout the Marine & Offshore Qatar (MOQ) event held last 9th and 10th September 2024, at the Sheraton Grand Hotel Doha.

During the two-day event, Advanced Watertek’s stand captivated visitors with an actual and functional “Water Maker” (aka Seawater Reverse Osmosis) system on display, showcasing the company’s 40-year expertise. This interactive display generated significant buzz among attendees, leading to numerous meetings with the Advanced Watertek sales team led by Melvin Eldin (Regional Sales Manager-Offshore), along with his team including Deepak Machado (Sales Manager-Aftermarket), and Nawfal Hussain (Key Accounts Engineer).

On the 2nd Day of the event, Melvin Eldin delivered a comprehensive presentation titled “Connecting the Dots in SDGs for Water”. His insights delved into the specific challenges faced by the offshore industry, including “Good health & well-being”, “Clean Water & Sanitation” & “Life below water”.

“The offshore industry’s reliance on single-use plastic PET bottles contributes significantly to marine pollution and poses risks to both marine ecosystems and human health. Research indicates that a single 33cl PET bottle can generate approximately 0.431 kg carbon footprint, contributing to climate change and ocean acidification. Additionally, microplastics released from these bottles can enter the marine food chain, potentially affecting marine organisms and ultimately human health. By transitioning to sustainable alternatives and implementing effective waste management strategies, the offshore industry can play a vital role in mitigating the negative impacts of plastic pollution and promoting a more sustainable future” Melvin explained, underscoring the company’s commitment to environmentally responsible water management.

Cognizant of the pivotal role sustainable water management played in the industry, Melvin implored stakeholders to join in embracing these eco-conscious practices in alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals for a brighter, more sustainable future.

Advanced Watertek has been serving the Offshore industry for decades with durable Water Makers and customised water treatment solutions. Melvin added “Industry knowledge gained over the years gives us the edge to build systems that tackle unique challenges faced by the offshore industry”.

Related articles:
Advanced Watertek Celebrates its 40th Anniversary continuing its Commitment to Holistic Water Treatment Solutions

Advanced Watertek Highlights the Critical Role of Sustainable Water Management at Marine & Offshore Qatar 2024
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The Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri C. R. Paatil, has unveiled iPUMPNET, a revolutionary solution developed indigenously by Pump Academy Private Limited, during the 8th India Water Week expo at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on 17^th September 2024. He was accompanied by Ms. Vini Mahajan, Secretary-Jal Shakti; Ms. Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary Water-Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, along with other senior officials of the Ministry.

During his visit to the Pump Academy booth at the India Water Week Expo, the Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti was briefed about the iPUMPNET system, which shows great potential in making water pumping stations smart and responsive. This cutting-edge system harnesses the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance the efficiency of water pumping stations and promotes a smarter, more sustainable approach to water management.

With its advanced remote monitoring and control capabilities for pumping infrastructure, iPUMPNET revolutionizes crucial water asset management by improving efficiency in water distribution, wastewater management, and irrigation. The system boosts productivity by up to 35%, reduces energy use by up to 25%, minimizes water loss, cuts carbon emissions, and extends equipment lifespan by up to 50%, ultimately saving costs and enhancing sustainability.

Pump Academy Private Limited has been conferred with the prestigious Economic Times Infra Focus Award 2024, earning recognition as the Best Brand in Water Technology for its revolutionary solution, iPUMPNET. The award recognizes the company’s innovative approach to water management and its significant contribution to the water infrastructure sector. It was presented during the ET Infra Focus Summit held in Delhi on September 19, 2024. This recognition underscores the company’s commitment to developing solutions that address critical water management challenges while promoting sustainability and resource optimization.

Mr. Anil Sethi, the Founder Chairman of Pump Academy Private Limited, commented: “The advanced technology embedded in iPUMPNET has great potential to optimize water asset management across India. By leveraging AI and IoT, we are not just improving efficiency; we are paving the way for a more sustainable and water-secure future. This solution aligns perfectly with the government’s vision for smart water management and could play a crucial role in addressing India’s water challenges. We are elated by the appreciation from the Hon’ble Minister and look forward to contributing to the nation’s water conservation efforts with technology interventions.”

He further said that: “We are deeply honoured to receive this prestigious recognition from the Economic Times. iPUMPNET represents our dedication to innovation in water technology. This award not only validates our efforts but also motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in smart water management. We believe that technologies like iPUMPNET will play a crucial role in shaping a water-secure future for India.”

Brief about Pump Academy:

Pump Academy Private Limited was established with a mission to encourage innovation and leverage digital technologies to improve the efficiency of pump operation and maintenance in water utilities and industries. Pump systems contribute to approximately 20% of the world’s electrical energy demand, and in certain applications, they account for upto 50% of electrical energy usage, being the largest consumers of electricity.

Pumping stations play a vital role in extracting and distributing water to meet the diverse needs of individuals, industries, and agriculture. The maintenance, energy consumption, and longevity of pumping stations are often overlooked. Recognizing this gap, Pump Academy has emerged as a pioneering organization, offering innovative solutions, iPUMPNET, to optimize pumping stations, extend their lifespan, improve operational efficiency, and reduce electrical consumption and carbon emissions. Pump Academy is revolutionizing the industry with its innovative approaches, setting a new standard in the optimization and management of pumping stations.

iPUMPNET Unveiled by the Union Minister of Jal Shakti & Wins ET Infra Focus Award 2024 for Best Brand in Water Technology
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In water-scarce Egypt, major industrial players have been looking for ways to reduce their water consumption. Ezz Steel, one of the leading steel producers in the Middle East and Africa, entrusted Veolia Water Technologies Egypt with supplying mobile water solutions that allowed cooling water supply to switch from the Nile River to desalinated seawater. This change is saving precious freshwater resources while helping Ezz Steel maintain business continuity. 

Ezz Steel rolling mills and Ezz flat steel plants are located in Al-Sokhna, an industrial area near the city of Suez in Egypt. The plants used to be supplied with freshwater from the Nile river before recently making the change to desalinated seawater — a source water with a relatively high level of chloride which could affect the whole cooling process. Veolia deployed seven brackish water reverse osmosis mobile water treatment units to further treat the desalinated water, doing so in two phases to ensure a quick response: within only two months, Veolia provided an initial 8,000 m³/d capacity which was doubled during the second phase in April 2023 to reach 16,000 m³/d. 

Thanks to Veolia’s mobile water treatment units, Ezz Steel were able to secure 100% of their water production with lower chloride and total dissolved solids rates, allowing them to keep the water flowing into their cooling system. In doing so, Ezz Steel have reduced their water and chemical consumption by approximately 75%. 

Mohamed Bakry, Utilities Senior Manager at Ezz Steel, commented: “Cooling is the primary water-consuming process in steel manufacturing plants. Veolia was able to provide an emergency response with the first phase being up and running in two months. It allowed us to reduce the use of freshwater while maintaining the steel production of our plants and reaching the required water quality.”

 

“In parts of the world affected by water scarcity, reducing their water footprint by optimizing cooling operations and maximizing water reuse is a game changer for industries. Veolia Water Technologies is pleased to collaborate with EZZ Steel and accompany them in their ecological transformation. Our team was able to rapidly offer an alternative to the environmental challenge they were facing by providing a reliable and secure source of water to answer their urgent needs” stated Laurent Hanique,  Middle East Techno Products & Services Director for Veolia Water Technologies.

With a worldwide fleet, Veolia’s mobile water services allow companies to benefit from a reliable and secure source of treated water 24/7, 365 days per year, to supply their core operations.

Related articles:

Veolia and SUEZ to merge

Egypt and UK sign MoU on water partnership

Veolia Water Technologies secures water production for Ezz Steel, saving freshwater from the Nile river
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(L-R) Dr Sayed Ismail, Egyptian Government Deputy Minister of Housing, Utilities & Urban Communities
Dr Mark Fletcher, Chair, British Water

“British Water looks forward to working closely together to help deliver critical transformation of water and wastewater services in Egypt.”

Egypt and UK sign MoU on water partnership
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