The Role of Seawater Desalination Plants in Achieving Water Security in Algeria: An Analytical Study From 2010 To 2025

Abderrazak Kadi

E-mail:Kadi.abderrazak@cu-tipaza.dz

Phd- Lecturer (Grade B) University of Tipaza )Laboratory of Green Economy and Development in Algeria(

Tipaza, Algeria

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1734-3371

ABSTRACT

This study aims to analyze the role of seawater desalination plants in achieving water security in Algeria during the period (2010–2025), in light of increasing pressures on conventional water resources due to climate change, rainfall fluctuations, population growth, and rising water demand across various sectors. The study relied on a descriptive-analytical approach by examining the development of seawater desalination projects, assessing their contribution to meeting water demand, and studying the challenges facing this strategic option. The study's results showed that Algeria witnessed a significant expansion in the number of desalination plants and their production capacities during the study period, particularly in densely populated coastal areas, which contributed to improving the regularity of drinking water supply and reducing dependence on groundwater resources and dams, especially during drought periods. The results also showed that desalinated water has become a key resource within the national water mix and has helped alleviate the severity of water crises in several coastal provinces, On the other hand, the study revealed a set of challenges that limit the effectiveness of desalination as a comprehensive and sustainable solution, foremost among them are high investment and operational costs, heavy reliance on conventional energy, environmental impacts resulting from the discharge of brine, as well as the limited transfer of desalinated water to inland areas. The study concluded that seawater desalination represents an important strategic option to enhance water security in Algeria, but it does not constitute a final solution on its own. Rather, it should be integrated into a comprehensive national vision based on diversifying water sources, rationalizing consumption, improving water governance, and increasing reliance on renewable energy, thereby ensuring the achievement of sustainable water security in the long term