Singapore desalination infrastructure could take another step forward after national water agency PUB appointed Jacobs to conduct a feasibility study for a potential new desalination plant.
The study will examine innovative desalination concepts designed to maximise land efficiency while strengthening Singapore’s long-term water security and supply resilience.
As one of the world’s most densely populated and land-constrained nations, Singapore continues to invest in advanced water technologies that support reliable and sustainable water supplies.
Exploring land-efficient desalination concepts
Jacobs will assess designs intended to optimise the use of limited land resources, including concepts that incorporate multi-storey structures and deeper basement facilities capable of housing treatment infrastructure.
The feasibility study will evaluate how desalination infrastructure can be integrated into Singapore’s urban environment while maintaining operational efficiency and future scalability.
Land optimisation remains a key consideration for major infrastructure developments across Singapore, where space constraints require increasingly innovative engineering approaches.
Dual-mode treatment facility under consideration
The study will also examine the viability of a dual-mode facility capable of treating both seawater and freshwater.
Such an approach could provide greater operational flexibility while improving resilience during changing weather conditions and fluctuations in water availability.
Jacobs will provide advisory services covering conceptual design development, treatment technology assessment, construction methodology analysis, lifecycle cost evaluation and risk assessment.
Why desalination remains important for water security
Desalination has become a critical component of Singapore’s long-term water strategy, helping diversify water sources and reduce vulnerability to drought, climate variability and changing rainfall patterns.
Advanced desalination technologies are increasingly being deployed globally as countries seek to strengthen water resilience in response to growing populations, urbanisation and climate-related pressures.
Read more H2O Global News coverage of desalination technology and water security projects.
Building on decades of water infrastructure collaboration
The appointment continues Jacobs’ longstanding involvement in Singapore’s water sector.
Previous projects delivered alongside PUB include the Deep Tunnel Sewerage System, NEWater facilities, Changi Water Reclamation Plant, Tuas Water Reclamation Plant and the New Kranji Water Reclamation Plant.
According to Jacobs, experience gained through major desalination projects in Singapore, Australia and the United States will support the feasibility study.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the feasibility study?
The study will assess whether a new desalination plant could support Singapore’s future water security needs and determine the most suitable design approaches.
What is a dual-mode desalination facility?
A dual-mode facility is designed to treat both seawater and freshwater, providing greater operational flexibility and resilience.
Why is desalination important in Singapore?
Desalination helps diversify Singapore’s water supply portfolio and supports long-term resilience against drought, climate change and growing demand.
Who is conducting the study?
Engineering and infrastructure company Jacobs has been appointed by PUB to carry out the feasibility assessment.
What services will Jacobs provide?
The company will undertake conceptual design development, technology assessment, construction analysis, lifecycle cost evaluation and risk assessment.
