S. 5352: Desalination Reauthorization Act

This bill would renew and expand several federal desalination-related programs. In simple terms, it would keep federal support available for projects that turn salty, brackish, or wastewater into usable water, and it would extend how long some of those programs can operate.

What changes it makes

• Reauthorizes desalination programs. It updates existing laws so certain desalination programs can continue instead of expiring on their earlier schedule.
• Extends the timeframe for some projects. One category of desalination projects would now be allowed to continue for 15 years after the bill’s enactment, rather than under the previous expiration rules.
• Defines which projects can qualify. Eligible projects generally must:
  • be located in a Reclamation State, or primarily benefit entities in a Reclamation State;
  • involve an ocean or brackish water desalination facility;
  • be built, run, or sponsored by a state, tribe, irrigation district, water district, or similar public water or power entity; or be publicly sponsored/funded with at least 25% of planning, design, and construction costs provided by public entities; and
  • provide a federal benefit under reclamation laws.
• Allows federal cost-sharing. The Secretary of the Interior could help fund an eligible desalination project for up to 25% of the total project cost. The bill also says there would be no dollar cap on that federal share within this program.
• Creates competitive grants for research and pilot projects. The bill directs the Secretary to award grants for:
  • advanced pilot desalination technologies;
  • first-of-a-kind systems tested in realistic operating settings;
  • projects that convert saline, brackish, seawater, or wastewater into usable water; and
  • methods for treating, managing, or disposing of brine waste.
• Requires cost analysis. Grant recipients would need to include detailed, quantitative analysis of how much water would cost to produce at full scale.
• Updates cost-sharing rules for research. It makes clear that federal cost-sharing can also apply to advanced pilot desalination projects, not just studies.

Plain-language effect

The bill would keep and broaden federal support for desalination research, demonstration, and infrastructure projects, especially in western states and other areas covered by reclamation laws. It would make it easier for public agencies and similar entities to seek federal participation in desalination projects, while also encouraging development of new water-treatment technologies and brine management methods.

Relevant Companies

None found