IDE Technologies, a global leader in water treatment solutions, has been honored with the IDRA Industry and Sustainability Award for achieving the Lowest Carbon Footprint in Desalination. This accolade recognizes the innovative advancements at the company’s Sorek II facility, a state-of-the-art seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination plant. The award was presented during the IDRA World Congress Gala Dinner on December 11 in Abu Dhabi, highlighting IDE’s commitment to sustainable water solutions.
Commitment to Sustainability
IDE’s dedication to advancing sustainable desalination is exemplified through its long-standing focus on reducing energy usage and environmental impact. The company has developed a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology to quantify carbon emissions at every stage of a plant’s operation. This cutting-edge approach allows IDE to calculate measurable sustainability parameters, such as carbon dioxide emissions per cubic meter (kgCO2/m³), establishing a high standard for the desalination industry.
At the newly operational Sorek II facility, IDE leveraged the LCA methodology to assess and minimize its carbon footprint. By integrating advanced technologies, IDE achieved significant emission reductions, setting a new sustainability benchmark.
Technological Innovations at Sorek II
The Sorek II plant incorporates multiple pioneering features aimed at environmental efficiency:
- Patented Direct-Steam-Drive Solution: This innovative system powers high-pressure pumps directly with steam, eliminating the energy losses typically associated with conventional generators, motors, and variable frequency drives. This upgrade significantly cuts power consumption and carbon emissions.
- Carbon Capture Integration: Sorek II employs a system that recycles CO2 emissions from the power plant into the remineralization process, reducing dependency on external CO2 sources, transportation costs, and resources.
- In-House Sodium Hypochlorite Production: By producing Sodium Hypochlorite (NaClO) on-site for post-treatment processes, the plant reduces reliance on external suppliers, energy usage, and associated costs.
- Independent Power Station: The facility operates autonomously from the electricity grid, avoiding inefficiencies caused by grid demand fluctuations.
Together, these innovations have reduced Specific Energy (SE) consumption by approximately 10% compared to comparable high-efficiency desalination plants. With a production capacity of 672,000 m³/day and a record-low water price, Sorek II demonstrates that economic efficiency and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.
Significant Carbon Reductions
IDE’s focus on carbon footprint reduction has yielded impressive results. Sorek II achieved a 30% reduction in carbon emissions compared to the Hadera desalination plant benchmark, translating to over 120,000 tons of CO2 savings annually.
Recognition and Future Goals
“IDE is committed to providing a more sustainable and secure water future for people across the globe, and we are incredibly honored to be recognized for these efforts,” stated Alon Tavor, CEO of IDE Technologies. The IDRA Industry and Sustainability Award highlights IDE’s role as a leader in sustainable desalination. This recognition not only celebrates IDE’s achievements but also inspires the desalination industry to adopt eco-friendly practices.
The award underscores the importance of reducing environmental impact in addressing climate change and ensuring sustainable water solutions. IDE continues its mission to achieve net-carbon-zero desalination, leveraging meticulous planning and innovative technology to create a greener future for the planet.
About IDE Technologies
As a world leader in desalination and water treatment solutions, IDE specializes in the design, construction, and operation of some of the most advanced thermal and membrane desalination facilities globally. The company collaborates with both municipal and industrial clients, delivering high-quality projects that push the boundaries of sustainability and efficiency in water treatment.
