Expand desalination plant capacity
Added 833 l/s of treatment capacity, bringing total production to 3,333 l/s—the largest in Latin America.
Client
BHP Billiton
Location
Santiago, Chile
Practices
Markets
Priorities
Expanding desalination capacity to secure water for mining operations
BHP Billiton is expanding seawater desalination capacity at Escondida, the world’s largest copper mine, by adding 833 liters per second of treatment capacity and upgrading four pumping stations. CDM Smith provided construction supervision and technical assistance as part of the owner’s team. The project delivered freshwater to support BHP’s long-term water strategy to increase desalinated water use, recover more process water and reduce aquifer withdrawals.
Upgrade pumping stations
Expanded four pumping stations and high-voltage electrical systems to deliver reliable water supply.
Support construction management
Provided project control, QA/QC administration and technical assistance to ensure safe, efficient delivery.
Strengthen compliance and safety
Oversaw HSE permitting, labor relations and pre-commissioning to meet environmental and operational standards.
The Escondida Water Supply Expansion Project secures reliable water for mining operations while advancing BHP’s sustainability goals. By expanding desalination capacity and modernizing pumping infrastructure, the project reduces reliance on aquifers and provides long-term water availability. CDM Smith’s role as part of the owner’s team provided essential management, safety oversight and technical support, helping deliver one of Latin America’s largest and most critical desalination facilities.
Client
BHP Billiton
Location
Santiago, Chile