Quality considerations from integrating desalinated water into existing water infrastructure

Abstract

This paper presents Cyprus Water Development Departments ‘(WDD)’ experience in relation to quality issues from the integration of desalinated water into existing water infrastructure. Desalination has been a part of a series of measures taken by Cyprus Government in an attempt to mitigate the shortage of the islands’ intensely stressed water resources. Since the late 90s, desalinated water of various qualities has been introduced into existing water distribution systems as both finished and blend water. The desalinated waters’ quality acceptance criteria were predetermined in accordance to the end use, national and local water quality standards and regulations, possible effects on distribution systems and the disinfection process being applied. Once full-scale operations were implemented, WDD’s quality monitoring programs were revised to better monitor the probable effects on drinking water quality and distribution systems. The quality parameters were monitored before and after integration as well as in selected endpoints of the distribution system. Most adverse effects related to the effectiveness of the disinfection process and the waters’ palatability. They were designated during the integration of the blend in the distribution system or during alternation between desalinated and treated surface water. In conclusion there is need for more quality parameters to be added in the quality monitoring program in order to enhance its effectiveness.