Submarine Groundwater: A New Concept for the Supply of Drinking Water

Submarine groundwater is water stored under the sea-bed. It might exist in large quantities and can have much lower salinity than the ambient sea-water. Therefore, it may be considered as a potential source of raw water for drinking water supply. This article assesses the feasibility of practical use of these resources. The hydro-geological potential and economical factors are discussed, and a technical concept for the withdrawal, transport and treatment of the water is presented. Based on these factors, we propose that submarine groundwater can be a potential substitute for desalination of sea water, in terms of comparable or lower cost potential. Furthermore, we expect energy efficiency gains and thus also higher environmental performance in terms of reduced CO2-emissions, compared to desalination of sea water based on fossil fuel. We foresee no major environmental, social or political barrier in utilising submarine groundwater as a new source of raw water.