WABAG bags Rs 415cr repeat order for Nemmeli Desalination Plant

In a significant development for the water technology sector, VA TECH WABAG, a leading Indian multinational specialising in water technology, has secured a repeat order valued at approximately INR 415 Crores. This new contract is for the operation and maintenance of the 110 MLD Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) desalination plant at Nemmeli, Chennai, for an additional seven years.

This latest contract extends WABAG’s involvement with the Nemmeli Desalination Plant, following their initial operation and maintenance contract which was completed in 2021. Despite the contract’s initial conclusion, WABAG continued its role due to a subsequent extension by the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewage Board (CMWSSB). Recently, CMWSSB issued a public tender for the continued operation and maintenance of the plant, which WABAG successfully won.

Background and Significance of the Nemmeli Desalination Plant

The Nemmeli Desalination Plant, inaugurated in 2013 by the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, marked a milestone as India’s first municipal desalination facility designed, built, and operated on a Design, Build, Operate (DBO) basis for drinking water purposes. Equipped with cutting-edge SWRO technology, the plant provides high-quality desalinated water for domestic use, benefiting the residents of South Chennai.

The facility is renowned for its efficiency in power consumption, crucial for sustaining the extensive desalination process. With millions of residents depending on its output, the plant plays a vital role in ensuring a steady supply of safe drinking water.

WABAG’s Commitment to Excellence

In response to securing the repeat order, Shailesh Kumar, CEO of WABAG’s India Cluster, expressed pride in the achievement. Kumar highlighted the strategic importance of the new contract in strengthening WABAG’s operation and maintenance portfolio. He noted that this order would enhance the company’s revenue predictability, improve cash flows, and provide a steady stream of annuity income. Kumar acknowledged the continued trust and confidence of CMWSSB in WABAG’s expertise and performance, and expressed a commitment to maintaining the plant’s operational excellence to serve the community.

WABAG’s Global Footprint and Technological Advancements

With over 100 years of experience, WABAG is a global leader in the water industry. The company, which operates in more than 25 countries, offers a comprehensive range of water solutions for municipal and industrial applications. WABAG’s portfolio includes over 1,400 municipal and industrial plants globally, reflecting its extensive expertise in providing tailored water management solutions.

The company continues to invest in research and development, with dedicated R&D centres in Europe and India. WABAG holds more than 125 intellectual property rights, underscoring its commitment to innovation. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, WABAG focuses on resource conservation, optimization, and recycling to address global water challenges.