Floating desalination solution to combat water scarcity

Veolia and SBM Offshore have signed a memorandum of understanding to address the convergence of water scarcity, energy transition and industrial transformation.

Through this partnership, the companies will develop and deploy freshwater floating production units (FPUs), combining reverse osmosis desalination technology with offshore engineering expertise to provide a sustainable, ocean-based solution to address global water demand.

“This partnership with Veolia marks an important moment in SBM Offshore’s journey to diversify our business,” said Olivier Icyk, SBM’s Chief Business Officer. “By combining our expertise in ocean infrastructure with Veolia’s leading desalination technology, we are taking bold steps to deliver sustainable solutions for water-stressed regions. Together, we are unlocking new markets in the blue economy and reaffirming our commitment to a responsible energy transition.”

The partnership targets multiple market segments facing acute water stress, including:

• municipal water systems in coastal areas experiencing growing demand and climate-related supply disruptions;
• mining operations in water-scarce regions seeking to reduce their environmental impact and secure social licence to operate;
• heavy industries requiring reliable freshwater supplies for their transition to lower-carbon operations.
   

These floating desalination units will be able to produce up to 100,000 cubic metres of fresh water daily — an amount equivalent to the needs of approximately 500,000 inhabitants.

Beyond their production capacity, these units can be deployed rapidly with shorter delivery timelines compared to onshore construction, scaled to match evolving requirements, and relocated as demand patterns shift.

This adaptability helps industrial clients secure water independence, reduce competition for water resources with local communities, and demonstrate environmental stewardship.

Together, the companies will develop comprehensive engineering, procurement, construction, installation, commissioning and long-term operation solutions for sustainable ocean-based water production.

“Water security has become inseparable from energy security, resource security and industrial competitiveness,” said Arnaud Valleteau, CEO of Veolia’s engineering & procurement projects, Water Tech. “As industries transition to more sustainable operations, reliable water access has become a strategic imperative, not just an operational requirement. We are proud to collaborate with SBM Offshore, whose offshore engineering excellence is globally recognised, to deliver solutions that address this critical need with unprecedented flexibility and speed.

“This innovative partnership is a concrete example of our GreenUp strategic program in action, enabling industries and communities to build resilience, reduce their environmental footprint and secure their future in an increasingly water-constrained world.”

Image credit: iStock.com/artplus