This report provides a comprehensive overview of the history, benefits, and risks of ocean desalination. It also explores the barriers hindering widespread use of this technology, especially in the context of recent proposals for a massive increase in desalination development in California.  

Appendices (All)

Map: Proposed Desalination Plants in California

Cost Breakdown of Typical Reverse Osmosis Desalination Plant

Excel File: Proposed Desalination Plants in California, May 2007 

Video: Desalination, With a Grain of Salt

Proposed Facilities

Cost and Financing 

Marine Impacts

Desalination, With a Grain of Salt

Energy and Greenhouse Gas Emissions