“How does Macao ensure its access to clean water?” you might ask. Right here, at the Main Storage Reservoir Water Treatment Plant, that question begins to find its answer. This facility is one of Macao’s vital water treatment plants. It helps to ensure the city’s residents have access to clean and safe water.
The Main Storage Reservoir Water Treatment Plant plays a crucial role in Macao’s water supply. Along with Ilha Verde and Coloane Water Treatment Plants, it treats water for the city. The Main Storage Reservoir Water Treatment Plant can treat up to 180,000 cubic metres of water each day.
Macao relies heavily on Zhuhai for its raw water supply. In fact, 96 percent of Macao’s water comes from Zhuhai. This raw water undergoes several treatment stages at plants like this one.
The treatment process involves multiple steps. First, raw water is mixed with water from the Seac Pai Van Reservoir. Next, coagulation occurs. Highly charged molecules are added to neutralise fine particles. These particles include gravel, sand, algae, clay, iron, protozoa and bacteria. After that, flocculation causes these particles to bind together. This forms larger clusters that are easier to remove.
The Main Storage Reservoir Water Treatment Plant filters the water. It adds more coagulants. This removes remaining particles and odours. It also reduces cloudiness. Finally, the water is disinfected. It is then stored in tanks. From there, it is ready for distribution across Macao.
Macao Water distributes treated water to nearly 5,000 low-storey buildings without water tanks. They also supply about 2,000 high-rise buildings. These buildings have their own tanks. These tanks are filled with water from treatment plants like the Main Storage Reservoir Water Treatment Plant. The water is then distributed to individual units.
Macao Water is dedicated to maintaining high water quality. They conduct regular research. This research covers water safety, pipeline leakages, virus particles and microplastics. Deputy General Manager Jacky Lei mentioned their efforts to quickly identify viruses and assess microplastics in the water.
Leakage is a concern. Macao loses about 7 percent of its water due to leaks. Macao Water uses sensors and listening sticks to detect leaks in the 630-kilometre pipe network. They are also working on a digitalised detection system using AI to identify leaks more quickly.
The Main Storage Reservoir Water Treatment Plant is part of Macao’s comprehensive water management system. It helps supply clean, safe water to the city’s residents and businesses. The commitment to quality and innovation ensures a reliable water supply for the future.