IDE Technologies, a global leader in water treatment solutions, announced today that it has been awarded the prestigious IDRA Industry and Sustainability Award for the Lowest Carbon Footprint in Desalination. The award recognizes the company’s pioneering work on the Sorek II facility, its flagship seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination plant, and was presented at the IDRA World Congress Gala Dinner in Abu Dhabi on December 11.
IDE has long been dedicated to advancing sustainable desalination by focusing on reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. The company developed a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology to measure and manage carbon emissions across all stages of seawater desalination plants. This has set a new standard for sustainability in the industry by offering quantifiable insights into carbon emissions, with metrics like kgCO2/m³.
At the Sorek II facility, IDE applied its LCA methodology to implement several advanced technologies aimed at minimizing carbon emissions. These innovations include a patented direct-steam-drive solution for high-pressure pumps, which eliminates inefficiencies of traditional power systems, thereby reducing energy consumption and emissions. The company also implemented a carbon capture system that recycles CO2 from the facility’s power plant, integrating it into the remineralization process, which cuts both transportation costs and resource consumption.
Additionally, Sorek II produces Sodium Hypochlorite (NaClO) in-house for post-treatment, reducing reliance on external resources and lowering energy costs. The facility’s independent power station ensures that it operates independently of grid electricity peak or off-peak hours, further enhancing efficiency. As a result, Sorek II reduced its Specific Energy (SE) consumption by 10% compared to other high-efficiency desalination plants.
With a capacity of 672,000 m³/day and a record-low water price, Sorek II exemplifies the harmony between environmental responsibility and economic efficiency. IDE’s efforts have reduced the facility’s carbon footprint by 30% compared to the Hadera benchmark, cutting over 120,000 tons of CO2 emissions.
“We are honored to receive this recognition and remain committed to delivering a sustainable water future globally,” said Alon Tavor, CEO of IDE Technologies. “Through innovative technologies and meticulous planning, Sorek II has set a new benchmark for sustainability in desalination.”
The IDRA Award for Lowest Carbon Footprint in Desalination celebrates organizations that lead the way in reducing their environmental impact. This recognition highlights IDE Technologies’ role in advancing eco-friendly practices within the desalination industry, helping to address climate change and ensuring a sustainable water future.
