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However, once the internal needs are met, I see a potential for
Chinese companies to expand outside its borders and provide
equipment or projects in areas, where desalination has been
traditionally more critical.
This phenomenon has already occurred in the power sector with a
Chinese EPC contractor taking a substantial share in the construction
of large power plants in Saudi Arabia.
The European Desalination Society, for which you
are a past-president, has a conference coming up
in Barcelona. What is the future of the European
desalination industry?
First of all, let me say that being president of EDS in 2004-2005
was one of the most significant moments in my career (obviously
before this very important assignment with IDA). EDS is an
important affiliate and has greatly contributed to the development of
the industry, and I am very pleased to see EDS and IDA cooperating
intensely in events in North Africa and in the forthcoming
conference in Barcelona.
Today, the cost of a desalination plant is mainly derived from cost of
materials; hence European firms will struggle to maintain a position
in the business against Far East countries where the cost of materials
is definitely cheaper. On the other hand, desalination technology is
fast-changing, and as long as European turnkey contractors are able to
innovate both in technology and contracting modes, the desalination
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technology can be a fertile market. l
February-March 2012 | Desalination & Water Reuse | 15 |
