In November 2024, Utility Magazine reported that the South Australian Government had approved a new desalination plant for the Eyre Peninsula, to be built at Billy Lights Point. Blair Boyer signed off under delegation following a recommendation from the State Commission Assessment Panel, attaching 22 conditions. Intake and outfall pipes are to be laid by trenchless methods and reach up to 1 km offshore. Around 35,000 SA Water customers draw roughly 75% of their drinking water from aquifers already showing higher salinity. First water was targeted for mid-2026.
The report showed a long-debated project moving towards delivery under the pressure of declining groundwater reserves. The revised pipe design took up objections raised by local residents.
Source: Utility Magazine