1. Desalination Feasibility Study Progresses with Surface Water Intakes and Brine Disposal Options Under Review
The Desalination Engineering Feasibility Study has completed its Fatal Flaw Analysis and is moving into alternatives analysis. Staff determined that subsurface intake wells are infeasible due to shallow, discontinuous aquifers with no lateral connection to the bay—requiring approximately 700 wells for a 20 MGD facility. The study is now evaluating screened surface intake options at three locations (Fish and Wildlife Service channel, mouth of Coyote Creek, and Guadalupe Slough), three facility sites (Palo Alto, Sunnyvale, and San Jose), and brine management through either commingling with wastewater treatment plant effluent or a new deep bay outfall. The study is examining facilities ranging from 10-40 MGD production capacity and considering resource recovery and alternative energy sources to reduce the significant energy demands of reverse osmosis treatment.
Already have an account? Sign In
