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ConveyanceWater Reuse and Industrial Treatment

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Metals and Mining

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Water Reuse and Desalination

Engineering and strategic support for Spence Mine’s 20-year water supply contract 

We partnered with BHP to provide strategic and technical expertise for the Spence Growth Options Project in Chile. This effort depends on a desalinated water supply delivered under a 20-year BOOT (Build–Own–Operate–Transfer) contract. For eight years, we supported BHP from identifying and evaluating joint ventures for the BOOT award through project execution, and now into the operational phase. 

Project overview 

The project features a 23-million-gallon-per-day seawater reverse osmosis plant, marine works, a 95-mile pipeline to deliver clean water to the mine, and a power system to keep it running.  

Procurement support  

We helped BHP choose the best partners, view bids, and shape the contract for this major water project. Our team guided evaluations, answered questions and supported negotiations.  

Execution support 

Our team reviewed technical submittals to ensure quality and provided hands-on support during construction and commissioning to help the project launch successfully.

Operation support 

During the operational phase, we reviewed operation and maintenance documents to ensure smooth performance. 

The Spence Growth Options Project is a critical initiative to secure water for mining operations in Chile’s Atacama Desert, one of the driest regions in the world. We supported BHP in developing a sustainable solution that includes a 23-million-gallon-per-day seawater osmosis plant, marine works, a 95-mile pipeline to deliver desalinated water and a dedicated power system. Under a 20-year BOOT contract, our team provided strategic guidance from partner selection and procurement through construction and commissioning. Today, we continue to assist operations, overseeing reliable water delivery and long-term mining sustainability.  

Curious to learn more?

Connect with an expert to find out how we delivered this project.

Guzman-Jose-Maria.jpg

Jose María Guzmán, PE, DWRE

Water Resources Engineer

Jose Maria's project experience includes program management, planning and design with water supply projects, stormwater, pump stations, and sewer collection systems.

Practices

ConveyanceWater Reuse and Industrial Treatment

Markets

Metals and Mining

Priorities

Water Reuse and Desalination

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