Maui County is in early planning stages for desalination facilities to address worsening water shortages, particularly in South and West Maui. Costs could range from $119 million to $328 million depending on capacity, and no construction timeline has been set.
- South and West Maui face the most acute water demand growth, with islandwide demand projected to rise 47% by 2035.
- The county is exploring both brackish and saltwater desalination options, with capacities ranging from 0.5 to 4 million gallons per day.
- Even the largest proposed facility would supply less than 10% of projected islandwide water demand over the next decade.
- 2024 was the driest year on record for Maui, and water shortage restrictions in Kīhei have become increasingly frequent in recent years.
- The project remains in very early feasibility and planning stages, with no confirmed funding, permits, or construction schedule.
Source: Maui Now
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