Submarine outfall in Moncofar

Moncofar Desalination Plant

The Moncofar desalination plant in Castellón, Spain, is an outstanding example of how modern engineering can solve critical water supply problems. This project, developed to supply drinking water to the towns of Moncofa, Chilches and Almenara, addressed an urgent challenge: the salinization of local aquifers due to marine intrusion.

Thanks to a precise and sustainable execution, the plant not only solves this basic need, but also positions itself as a reference model in water management.

General project details

Location: Moncofa, Castellón, Spain.
Tunnel construction timeJanuary to May 2012.
Start of plant operations: March 2019.
Main objectiveTo supply drinking water and mitigate the salinization of aquifers.

The project has not only ensured access to drinking water for local communities, but has also significantly improved the sustainability of water resources in the region.

Technical specifications

Submarine outfall tunnel
- Inside diameter: 1,200 mm.
- Length: 444 meters.
- Excavated landSand and clay.

Underwater immisary tunnel
- Inside diameter: 1,500 mm.
- Length: 441 meters.
- Excavated landSand and clay.

Precision and efficiency in excavation ensured safe installation of the pipelines without significantly affecting the marine environment.

Logistics and technical challenges

A key challenge in the execution was the rescue of the tunnel boring machines, which was carried out by specialized marine means. This meticulously planned operation was essential to complete the work without compromising the stability of the coastal terrain.

In addition, the use of advanced technologies allowed:

Reduce environmental impact during construction.
Precisely control drilling trajectories, even in complex terrain.
Optimize execution times compared to traditional methods.

Environmental and social impact

The Moncofa desalination plant has transformed the quality of life of thousands of people in the region by ensuring a constant supply of drinking water. The main benefits include:

Protection of local aquifers: The reduction of salinization ensures the sustainability of the water resource.
Environmental conservationThe environmentally friendly execution minimized the impact on marine ecosystems.

References of executed works

In Eurohinca we are specialists in the execution of tunnels for pipelines with tunnel boring machines. Since its foundation in 1996 Eurohinca has executed different types of works:

International Experience