Lessons Learned From the Start-Up and Commissioning of a Seawater Desalination Plant in a Palestinian Territory

The primary fresh water source in the Gaza area – a Palestinian territory – is the Coastal Aquifer where the water quality has deteriorated to a point it is no longer suitable for human consumption. Therefore, desalination has become one of the main viable options for meeting the potable water demand in the area. In 2018, a complete desalination package was installed – with a capacity of 0.94 MGD. The system design included a two pass seawater RO system with 30 vessels in the first pass and a 6:4 (dual stage) array in the second pass. This plant considered a modular RO train design that was completely pre-assembled before shipment in containers to facilitate easier installation. The twenty-four-month project was not without challenges in this volatile area. Procurement and logistical challenges were tackled and resolved working alongside the client. This paper will describe the challenges and important lessons learned from the procurement through to the start-up/commissioning of the plant and will discuss important factors for consideration when planning execution activities in similar regions.

This presentation is available to AMTA Members only.