Japanese desalination project engineers arrive in Manus

A second team of Japanese engineers involved in the Desalination project in Manus which converts sea water to fresh drinking water have arrived in Manus.

This technology will see solar-powered seawater desalination plant systems installed on identified islands which will convert salt water to fresh drinking water and is funded by the Pacific Environment Community. 

The Sojitz engineers from Japan’s Toray Industry, the manufacturers of the desalination plant arrived in Lorengau on Sunday, Oct 23.  

This team replaced the first team that has been in Manus since May when the project was launched on Bipi Island.

Solar equipment including backup controls and batteries, plus the actual desalination plant equipment that will be installed in the project islands of Bipi, Mbuke, Whal, Nauna, Mal and Aua.

The Desalination National Project Manager Tom Anayabere said the engineers are now on Bipi Island where they will continue installation of the desalination plants at the identified well beach sites.

“Commissioning on Bipi is fixed for 15th November. Installation on Mbuke and Whal islands starts 20th November,” Anayabere said.

He said the team in Lorengau is delivering the plant equipment to Mbuke and Whal islands tomorrow (Wednesday) before installation commences next month.

This pioneering project will pave the way for similar projects to be implemented for other atoll islands affected by the effects of climate change, resulting in the rise of sea level which is affecting their source of drinking water.

(Pictured is equipment onboard the MV Trader star which were delivered to Bipi island last week. Picture courtesy of Desalination National Project Manager Tom Anayabere.)

 

 

Author: 
Sally Pokiton