10136108Accelerating performance and uptake of energy efficient forward osmosis desalinationActiveCollaborative R&DInnovate UKBoth the UK and Singapore are facing current/future challenges of freshwater demand significantly exceeding supply. In the UK, there will be projected water supply deficits of ~5000MLD (2050), driven by Environment Agency abstraction reductions, population and economic growth, and climate change effects of drought/water scarcity. In Singapore, the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment has projected that domestic water demand will double in 40 years. This, whilst there is substantial need to increase water resilience and become less dependent on external water supply. Both countries recognise that current technologies used for large-scale desalination are costly, energy intensive and lead to significant greenhouse gas emissions. With this recognition, is realisation and drive for new ideas and more efficient products and processes for desalination. Waterwhelm (UK), through participation in Innovate UK's Singapore Global Incubator Programme, has recognised the need for new low-carbon footprint desalination technologies in Southern Asia. Further, the opportunity to export its desalination technology to the region to produce water when it is needed most. Waterwhelm has a breakthrough water re-use and desalination technology that operates at significantly lower pressure, than the installed base, for lower capital and maintenance cost. Powered by waste heat, the circular solution achieves the world's lowest-ever rate of electricity consumption and CO2 emissions. In comparison to reverse osmosis (RO), Waterwhelm's forward osmosis (FO) uses up to 80% less electricity whilst eliminating the need for high pressures leads to 35% less CAPEX (on scale-up) and ~50% less OPEX. Through this business led, collaborative R&D project, Waterwhelm will develop its technology for the Singapore/Southern Asia region. With direct seawater desalination operational/testing trials to deliver an improved commercialised product. Leveling the playing field between FO and RO, incentivising uptake of the new technology. Through GIP, Waterwhelm determined high levels of (unutilised) waste heat at industrial sites in Singapore/Asia, and desperate need for fresh water. Waterwhelm can make these site self-sufficient in terms of their own water use. The overall impact will be an improved forward osmosis desalination product, exported from the UK, for water re-use and desalination that significantly reduces carbon footprint of fresh water production and increases water availability. It will accelerate company growth, and benefit local economies in UK -- through established local supply and contractor chains and in Singapore where water scarcity is stifling economic growth (e.g. water for semiconductor production). Enhancing business links and trade between nations whilst protecting our most valuable resource; water.