Nanarup has been selected as the preferred location for a proposed seawater desalination plant, marking a key step in planning a new climate-resilient water source for Western Australia’s Lower Great Southern region.
The project is intended to address long-term water supply challenges driven by population growth, economic development and declining rainfall, with desalination identified as the only source capable of meeting projected demand within the required timeframes.
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Why a new water source is needed
Planning for an additional water source in the Great Southern began in 2009, with seven potential locations initially identified between Walpole and areas east of Albany.
Climate projections indicate average annual rainfall around Albany could decline by up to 21 per cent by 2050, placing increasing pressure on dams, rivers and groundwater systems that currently supply around 90 per cent of the region’s drinking water.
Driven by growth across Albany and surrounding towns, annual demand is expected to exceed supply by 2030, with up to 1.8 billion litres of additional drinking water required by mid-century.
Why Nanarup was selected
Following detailed technical and environmental investigations, the shortlist was narrowed to two preferred sites, Nanarup and Sandpatch.
Nanarup was ultimately selected after a comprehensive assessment process that considered technical feasibility, environmental impacts, constructability, operational risk and cost. Marine modelling showed favourable ocean conditions to support effective brine dispersion, while the site also presented a lower risk during construction and long-term operation.
Its proximity to Albany and existing water infrastructure were other key factors, reducing the need for long pipelines and helping minimise environmental and social impacts.
The Sandpatch option was ruled out due to complex geology, steep topography and challenging ocean conditions that would pose safety risks during construction and future operations.
What the proposed plant would deliver
The proposed desalination plant is expected to initially deliver around three billion litres of drinking water per year, supplying Albany, Mount Barker, Kendenup and Narrikup, with capacity to support Denmark as required.
While small in scale compared to metropolitan desalination facilities, the plant would play a critical role in underpinning regional water security and providing confidence for housing, industry and agricultural development.
Next steps in the investigation process
The project will now move into a detailed investigation phase, with Water Corporation undertaking geotechnical, environmental, Aboriginal heritage and marine studies.
Marine investigations will include independent scientific modelling using wave, tide and current data collected at the site to further refine design and environmental management approaches.
Community engagement will continue throughout the project, including through an independently facilitated consultation group, as planning progresses toward a final decision.
Building climate-resilient regional supply
Water and Climate Resilience Minister Don Punch said desalination is essential to securing the Great Southern’s water future in a drying climate.
“This will be a small facility, but the positive effect on Albany and the Great Southern’s opportunities, environment, investment, and living standards will be immense over the coming decades,” Punch said.
Great Southern Minister Reece Whitby said water supply constraints could not be allowed to limit regional growth, while Samantha Rowe MLC emphasised the importance of minimising environmental and social impacts at Nanarup.