WATER CONSERVATION
CRISTINA QUICLER/AFP/GETTY IMAGES
Water’s power The close connection between water and power means technology choices need to be made carefully
Solar thermal power frequently
W
ater and energy are shackled together in the Middle East. Desalinated water from combined power generation and desalination facilities is the primary source of supply in GCC countries. Water is also a crucial component in energy production. These facts make successful water treatment and reuse an essential conservation measure. While sensible use of water in the region sounds like an easy step toward effective water conservation, the taking of it has proved elusive. Population growth, a broadening industrial base and urbanisation have all had an impact on consumption and waste. This has left a number of Gulf countries almost totally reliant on sea water desalination for fresh water supplies. Issues of scarcity have primarily been addressed through an
needs a desert location, as well as plenty of water.
24 Utilities Middle East
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August 2009
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