The construction of a desalination plant costing more than R$3 billion in Fortaleza, Ceará, brings a major advance to water security in the region, but also raises concerns about Brazil's internet infrastructure.
The desalination plant, an investment of more than R$3 billion, is being built in Fortaleza, Ceará. Located close to Praia do Futuro, the area is a strategic point, where 17 internet cables from three continents converge, making it the second largest internet hub of the world.
The construction of the plant raised concerns in the telecommunications sector, especially due to its proximity to these submarine cables. There is fears that the works could affect the quality or even interrupt the internet connection in the country.
Benefits of Desalination Plant
Despite concerns, the plant promises increase water supply in the region by 12%, benefiting around 720.000 people. Fortaleza, with 2,6 million inhabitants, faces significant challenges with an insufficient supply of potable water, aggravated by periods of drought.
Praia do Futuro was chosen after years of studies, being preferred over Praia do Cumbuco, in Caucaia, which presented operational problems and would require significant additional investment. The choice, however, generated a conflict between the National Telecommunications Agency (ANATEL) and telecommunications companies, concerned about the impact on internet connections.
Power plant project details
The project will be led by the Ceará Water and Sewage Company (Cagece) and operated by SPE Águas de Fortaleza, a public-private partnership. Common investment of BRL 3,2 billion, the plant will have the capacity to produce 1000 liters per second, using reverse osmosis technology to remove sea salts. The water collected will be treated and distributed for human consumption, while the waste water will be returned to the sea in an environmentally responsible way.
A Concern over fiber optic cables led to design adjustments. The plant structure was repositioned to maintain a safe distance from the cables, ensuring there is no interference with telecommunications. These changes follow the recommendations of the International Cable Protection Committee.
Plant capacity and operation
The desalination plant, scheduled to start operations in 2026, will be a crucial reinforcement during periods of drought. The plant will operate at full capacity at these times, supplying water to critical regions of Fortaleza. In moments of water abundance, operations will be reduced to keep equipment in good condition.
The construction of the desalination plant represents a long-term solution to Ceará's water challenges, especially during periods of drought. despite initial infrastructure concerns of internet, adjustments to the project ensure that there will be no negative impacts. This project is an important milestone in the management of water resources in the Northeast of Brazil, balancing environmental and technological needs.
