Desalination Plant Construction: A Game-Changer for St. Kitts and Nevis

Addressing Water Woes with a Reliable and Sustainable Supply

In an effort to address the Federation’s growing water woes, the government of St. Kitts and Nevis is making considerable investments into the building and commissioning of desalination plants, as a means to provide a continuous, reliable, and sustainable supply of potable water for St. Kitts and Nevis, serving as a lifeline for residents and businesses across the Federation.

Prime Minister the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, along with Minister of Public Infrastructure and Water Services, Honourable Konris Maynard, and representatives from Royal Utilities, recently visited the site of one of the plants currently under construction at the C.A. Paul Southwell Industrial Site in Basseterre.

Progress and Timelines

The seawater reverse osmosis desalination plant, a major component of the Drew-led government’s strategy to enhance water security, is expected to produce two million gallons of water daily. Prime Minister Dr. Drew, who has been a vocal advocate for improving national infrastructure, expressed confidence in the project’s timely completion. “We are fortunate that every step of the way, every milestone has been met as per the contractual obligations. The work is progressing very well, and we are on schedule,” said Dr. Drew.

Government’s Commitment to Water Security

Minister Maynard also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling the water supply issues that have been exacerbated by climate change. “This is a major undertaking by the government,” Minister Maynard stated, “…and we are extremely grateful for the unwavering support from the Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, and the entire Cabinet in making this project a priority. Their support has been instrumental in ensuring we continue to hit all the necessary targets.”

Conclusion

The desalination plant is expected to be operational by mid-2025, with full-scale water production commencing by July 2025. The plant will ensure that the Basseterre region and surrounding areas receive a consistent and reliable source of potable water 24 hours a day, seven days a week. “This will be a game-changer for St. Kitts and Nevis. By the middle of 2025, we will be able to provide a steady supply of water for the entire Basseterre region, eliminating the current water shortages and improving the overall quality of life for our people.”

FAQ

Q: What is the purpose of the desalination plant?

A: The desalination plant is designed to provide a continuous, reliable, and sustainable supply of potable water for St. Kitts and Nevis, serving as a lifeline for residents and businesses across the Federation.

Q: What is the expected capacity of the desalination plant?

A: The plant is expected to produce two million gallons of water daily.

Q: When is the desalination plant expected to be operational?

A: The plant is expected to be operational by mid-2025, with full-scale water production commencing by July 2025.

Q: What is the government’s commitment to water security?

A: The government is committed to tackling the water supply issues that have been exacerbated by climate change and is working to enhance water storage systems, drill additional wells, and identify new water sources.

Q: What is the value of the desalination plant project?

A: The project is valued at EC$50 million.