The Victorian desalination plant will use reverse osmosis technology. This is the most energy and cost efficient method available for large-scale seawater desalination.

The desalination process involves drawing in seawater which is screened and filtered to remove particles. This water passes through two stages of reverse osmosis membranes to remove salt before being remineralised to meet drinking water standards.

The drinking water is transferred to the Pearcedale-Cardinia main near Cardinia Reservoir and seawater concentrate is diffused into the ocean.

• For more information on the scope of the Victorian Desalination Project, click here.
• For more information on reverse osmosis membranes click here to see an animation.
• For more information on energy recovery devices click here to see an animation.

Turning seawater into drinking water

Hover over a number to find out more about each part of the desalination plant.

1. Seawater is drawn in from the ocean through specially designed intake structures. Seawater is drawn at very low speeds – even small fish will be able to swim against the intake current – and a protective grill will ensure that larger marine life can't swim into the structure.
2. Seawater intake tunnel
   A long tunnel (approximately 1.2 km long) transports seawater to the plant site and protects the marine environment, including the beach and dune system.
3. Screening
   Seawater is screened and fine particles removed.
4. Pre-treatment filtration
   Seawater is filtered to remove solids such as any remaining sand and sediment.
5. Reverse Osmosis
   Filtered seawater passes through two stages of reverse osmosis, where it is pushed through ultra fine membranes under high pressure. Fresh water passes through, leaving seawater concentrate behind.
6. Remineralisation
   Desalinated water is remineralised to meet Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and Victorian health requirements.
7. Drinking water is stored before it is distributed into the Melbourne and regional water networks, where it may be blended with water from existing catchments.
8. Drinking water is pumped into Melbourne’s water supplies.
9. Outlet tunnel
   A long tunnel (approximately 1.5km long) transports seawater under the dunes and coast, thereby protecting the environment.
10. Seawater is diffused into the ocean with specially designed nozzles to ensure it diffuses rapidly.
11. Coastal integration
    The spoil from earthworks is being used to create a series of new dunes, which will help integrate the plant with the natural landscape. It also helps to reduce emissions from construction by reducing truck movements and fuel consumption.
12. Living green roof
    A living green roof, covered with living indigenous ground covers, tussocks and low shrubs will help blend the plant into the natural landscape. The roof also provides acoustic protection, thermal control and reduce maintenance.
13. Ecological restoration
    The project will result in one of the largest ecological restoration programs ever undertaken in Victoria, with the creation of a 225ha coastal park complete with wetlands, coastal and swampy woodlands and new habitat for local fauna. A new network of pedestrian, cycling and horse riding paths on the plant site will link with existing trails.