Penang is restarting its Pulau Aman Desalination Project (PADP) as part of a broader strategy to secure long-term water supply. The RM3.81 million pilot project, managed by the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PWSC), aims to produce 240,000 liters of treated water daily, serving the island’s residents and tourists.
Background
The plant was originally launched in 2015 to convert seawater into potable water. However, it was shut down after failing to meet Ministry of Health standards. Following expert reviews and upgrades, restoration work is now underway, with operations expected to resume by mid-2026.
Key Features
- Capacity: 0.24 million liters per day
- Beneficiaries: 94 consumer accounts and over 200 residents of Pulau Aman
- Current Supply: Water is currently piped from Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant via submarine pipelines—a costly and complex process the revived plant aims to reduce.
Strategic Importance
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow emphasized that Penang cannot rely on a single water source, given its limited resources. Desalination is seen as a vital technology for water security beyond 2030, complementing other contingency projects under the state’s Raw Water Contingency Plan.
Progress and Tariffs
The project, which began restoration on June 16, is 26.61% complete and on track for completion by June 15, 2026. Despite higher operational costs, consumers will continue paying the standard domestic tariff of RM0.86 per cubic meter, with PWSC absorbing the difference.
(Source: The Sun)