The government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced plans to upgrade its reverse osmosis (RO) plants as the country grapples with a worsening drought and the complete depletion of Potworks Dam, once a key water source.
Speaking at Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing, Chief of Staff Lionel Hurst said the upgrade at the Fort James RO plant will include the installation of a new ultra-filtration system to protect membranes from damage caused by sand and sediment.
“This ultra-filtration unit is intended to remove the pebbles and shells that would otherwise hurt the membranes,” Hurst explained, noting that the plant also draws water through wells along the shoreline, providing a natural filtration layer.
Potworks Dam, which previously produced 900,000 gallons of water per day, is no longer in use. With daily demand estimated at 12 million gallons, the government is relying more heavily on desalination.
Hurst acknowledged the high cost of producing desalinated water but defended the government’s continued subsidy through the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA). “APUA sells 1,000 gallons of water for $22, which is far below the production cost,” he said.
While the government is not ruling out a future increase in water rates, officials said any adjustments would only come once all consumers have consistent 24-hour access.
In the meantime, the public is being urged to conserve water. APUA is expected to launch new campaigns promoting household conservation practices, such as turning off taps while brushing teeth or shaving.
Hurst added that the government is also seeking international support, including funding from the Global Environment Facility, to build new dams and increase rainwater catchment.
