Development application approved - November 2024

The government has announced the approval of the Development Application for the Eyre Peninsula desalination plant at Billy Lights point with conditions. This is a significant step forward in ensuring long-term water security for the region.

The Development approval follows extensive review and assessment by various government agencies and regulators to ensure comprehensive scrutiny of all the aspects of the project.

Once operational, the desalination plant will provide reliable, climate-independent water source for the Eyre Peninsula, supplementing the Uley South groundwater supply and ensuring water security for the region into the future.

Now that a development approval has been granted, we are in a position to progress other aspects of the project including commencement of early site works.

In addition to progressing the desalination plant as the solution to water security for the region, last week SA Water released our EP Water Security Response Plan, which includes moving to level 2, voluntary water-wise measures. This encourages our customers to adopt more efficient water use practices. As part of the water security response plan, from Monday 2 December, eligible customers on the Eyre Peninsula will be able to access rebates for select water efficient appliances and fixtures, helping to reduce water consumption both inside and outside the home. The water security response plan takes a responsible approach to preparing for all scenarios to maintain water supply to our 35,000 local customers until the desalination plant is operational.

We remain committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure the desalination project delivers water security with minimal impact to the surrounding environment.

Early site preparation works are planned to begin before the end of the year, with the first water from the plant expected to be delivered by mid-2026.