Nemmeli Desalination Plant – 110 MLD SWRO, Chennai
Client
Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewage Board (CMWSSB)
Location
Chennai, India
Capacity
110,000 m³/day
WABAG has secured a repeat order valued at INR 415 Crores from Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewage Board (CMWSSB) for the continued Operation & Maintenance (O&M) of the 110 MLD Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) Nemmeli Desalination Plant. This latest contract builds on WABAG’s decade-long successful management of the facility, which began in 2013.
WABAG’s expertise in long-term O&M of critical water infrastructure has played a key role in the plant’s efficient performance and uninterrupted supply of desalinated water to South Chennai. The plant, India’s first municipal desalination facility built on a Design-Build-Operate (DBO) model, ensures the production of high-quality potable water while optimizing power consumption. With this extension, WABAG continues to ensure that millions of residents in South Chennai benefit from a reliable and sustainable water supply.
Project Highlights:
- Scope: Comprehensive O&M of the desalination plant, ensuring efficient production of desalinated water for Chennai’s growing water needs. The contract includes optimizing power consumption and maintaining the plant’s overall performance to provide safe, potable water.
- Duration: 11 years (2013–2024, with a 7-year extension starting from 2024)
- Technology:Â Advanced Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) technology is utilized to desalinate sea water and meet international drinking water standards, while prioritizing energy optimization.
- Impact: The plant provides a vital water source for millions of residents in South Chennai, contributing to the city’s water security. WABAG’s role ensures the sustained supply of clean water and supports the infrastructure’s longevity through efficient management.

