Reservoirs improve desalination plant efficiency by allowing the facility to operate at a steady and predictable rate, rather than constantly adjusting to fluctuating water demand. Desalination processes, particularly reverse osmosis and thermal methods, are most energy-efficient and cost-effective when run continuously. Without storage, plants would need to cycle up and down throughout the day, which increases wear on equipment, consumes more energy, and complicates operations.
By storing treated water in reservoirs, operators can decouple production from consumption. The plant produces water at an optimal, steady pace, while the reservoir absorbs variations in demand—releasing more water during peak usage and holding excess during low demand periods. This reduces stress on pumps, membranes, and other components, helping extend their lifespan and lowering maintenance costs.
