Chennai-based National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) has stepped up the project of delivering potable water in six islands of Lakshadweep using low temperature thermal desalination (LTTD) technology.
Currently, there are five operational desalination plants in Lakshadweep islands, and four more are expected to start functioning in the coming months. The proposed self-sustaining plant is expected to be ready in the latter part of 2023.
Currently, the desalination plants, with a minimum daily capacity of 1,00,000 litres of potable water, are powered by diesel-powered generator sets.
NIOT, which has worked extensively on harnessing energy from the ocean, under the aegis of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) is working to upgrade the process to ensure emission-free output. In a first of its kind facility, the desalination plant will supply power to the plant.
LTTD utilizes the concept of de-pressurized water which evaporates even at ambient temperatures, and the resulting vapour when condensed, are devoid of salts and contaminants, making it fit for consumption.
