New desalination plant to convert 50 million gallons of potable water

CARLSBAD (KUSI) – A 10-mile pipeline that connects a desalination plant in Carlsbad to the San Diego County Water Authority’s distribution system was completed Monday.

Poseidon Water and the water authority announced that the last 54-inch section was dropped into place in Carlsbad. The section was the 2,177th of the pipeline that runs between Carlsbad and San Marcos.

The desalination facility, which cost $1 billion, is expected to begin delivering water this fall, pending approval from state regulators.

Once production officially starts, the plant will convert seawater into approximately 50 million gallons of potable water a day.

“This final piece of pipe is a significant milestone for the Carlsbad Desalination Project, and a sign that the entire construction project is entering its final phase,” said Peter MacLaggan, Poseidon’s vice president. “We are grateful for the cooperation and support of the businesses, residents, property owners and city staff along the route in Carlsbad, Vista and San Marcos.”

According to Poseidon, the plant is expected to deliver water for serve about 112,000 families and it will meet 7 to 10 percent of the region’s water demand.

The chairman of the water authority’s board, Mark Weston, said the project will provide a core water supply for the region.

“It is a critical piece of the Water Authority’s long-term supply diversification strategy to enhance the reliability of the region’s water supply, along with water conservation, recycling and transfers from the Imperial Valley,” Weston said. “We are particularly eager to start receiving the benefits of this project given the severe drought conditions faced statewide.”