Water.org’s WaterConnect Funds Feasibility Study for First-of-Its-Kind Desalination Plant in Maldives

Water.org’s catalytic infrastructure fund, WaterConnect, is investing an undisclosed amount to conduct a feasibility study for a pioneering subsea desalination plant in the Maldives. This initiative aims to address the significant challenge of securing capital for first-of-a-kind (FOAK) climate technology deployments in small, emerging markets. The project involves a partnership with Norwegian technology firm Flocean and the Malé Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC), which serves as the prospective offtaker. Flocean’s innovative technology utilizes natural water pressure rather than fossil fuels, potentially reducing energy consumption by 40% compared to traditional methods. The primary goal of this investment is to derisk the project by establishing its technical and commercial viability, thereby making it attractive for further private investment through blended finance models. John Moyer from WaterConnect emphasized that such infrastructure requires mixed capital sources to succeed. This effort aligns with WaterConnect’s broader strategy to increase the volume of investment-ready water infrastructure opportunities in emerging economies, following similar initiatives in Kenya. The plant aims to supply freshwater to Malé and Hulhumalé, offering a sustainable solution to water scarcity in the island nation.