Saudi Arabia: water self-sufficiency as a goal
ACCIONA, with extensive experience in infrastructure and essential services, has made this model the cornerstone of its international growth
Under Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the national economy and strengthen water and energy security, ACCIONA has developed major projects under PPP models. One of the most notable is the Shuqaiq 3 desalination plant, among the largest in the country, using reverse osmosis technology.
Developed in partnership with the Saudi Water Partnership Company (SWPC), Shuqaiq 3 supplies drinking water to more than three million people and incorporates the highest standards of energy efficiency and environmental performance. The plant integrates advanced technology to reduce energy consumption and minimise environmental impact, contributing to the country’s long-term goal of water self-sufficiency.
Beyond its technical scope, Shuqaiq 3 has become a regional reference for successful public-private collaboration. It has created local employment, promoted knowledge transfer, and strengthened institutional capacity for managing large-scale infrastructure.
Morocco: strengthening resilience against water stress
PPPs facilitate introducing innovations that the public sector alone would take longer to implement due to budgetary or regulatory constraints
With rapid population growth and increasing vulnerability to drought, Morocco has made water system reinforcement a national priority. The government has relied on PPPs to speed up this process and ensure long-term water security.
Among the projects led by ACCIONA, the Casablanca Desalination Plant stands out as one of the largest in the world, with a capacity of 822,000 cubic metres per day. Located in Sidi Rahal, in the Greater Casablanca region, it is the first plant in a national program to build desalination facilities across the country. The project will help meet growing demand for water in domestic, agricultural, and industrial uses, and will contribute directly to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.
By reducing dependence on overexploited aquifers and ensuring a stable water supply, the Casablanca project will significantly improve Morocco’s resilience to water stress. Its design prioritises energy efficiency and environmental protection, reflecting the country’s commitment to sustainable growth.
