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The major highlight of the year was the completion of the desalination project. Water from the plant flowed into the system in January 2010.

The major highlight of the year was the completion of the desalination project. Water from the plant flowed into the system in January 2010. This $1.9 billion project was completed on time and $90 million below budget. It was the most significant construction for Sydney Water since Warragamba Dam was built 50 years ago.

The project has won a number of awards in public private partnership, environmental and project management, and for the use of innovative technologies and techniques. The desalination pipeline construction across Botany Bay was world-first engineering – the largest twin pipes installed underwater using a lay barge.

The desalination project was part of the NSW Government’s Metropolitan Water Plan. This plan is designed to balance water supply and demand, as population increases, in the context of an uncertain climate outlook. The Metropolitan Water Plan was reviewed during the year and Sydney Water was closely involved in that review.

Under the plan, we are responsible for wastewater, recycling and demand management. This year, the Rouse Hill Water Recycling Plant was expanded. Work started on the Hoxton Park recycled water scheme and on the privately owned and operated Recycled Water Plant at Smithfield/Camellia. The pipelines for the St Marys Water Recycling Plant were completed.

Sydney Water also continued to encourage efficient water use. Managing our own leaks continued to be a key focus. Active leak detection, pressure management and water main renewal programs are showing positive results. Over the past five years, Sydney Water has reduced leaks by 40%. Under the world rating system for leak management, Sydney Water is ranked at the highest level.
Water efficiency initiatives for households and businesses continued. The toilet replacement program for residential customers began and Sydney Water worked closely with schools to assist them in water conservation.

Sydney’s population is expected to reach 5.3 million in 2031. To accommodate the steady increase in population we developed Growth Servicing Plans after consultation with the Department of Planning and developers. Water, wastewater and recycling services continued to be added to the system, particularly in the south-west and north-west growth sectors. During the year, assets were built to service new lots at Edmondson Park, Hoxton Park, Oran Park and Turner Road in the south-west; at North Kellyville, Alex Avenue and Area 20 in the north-west.

New sewerage schemes were constructed at Freemans Reach, Glossodia, Wilberforce, Londonderry, Agnes Banks, Hawkesbury Heights and Yellow Rock.

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