Chilean utilities up water infra investments to US$150mn

Water utilities in Chile spent around 100bn pesos (US$150mn) in reinforcing infrastructure and potable water production this year, 65% more than in 2017, as firms are facing new challenges linked to climate change and an increased number of clients, daily El Mercurio reported.

A study by local water utility association Andess shows that 55% of this year's investments in water infrastructure were made by Aguas Andinas, which serves the central Metropolitana region that includes Santiago, mostly through the ongoing construction of six storage tanks to improve the security of the capital's potable water supply during periods of high turbidity and emergencies.

The US$100mn project is expected to enter operations next year, and will be capable of holding up to 1.48Mm3, increasing the self-sufficiency of Santiago's water system from 11 to 34 hours during emergencies.

A spokesperson from Andess told BNamericas that the full analysis, including the investments of each utility, will be made available to the public either this week or next.

Other investments this year include the expansion of a desalination plant of Aguas Antofagasta in the north and the acquiring of water rights in areas of scarcity.

In comments to El Mercurio, Andess head Jéssica Lopez said utilities are facing a challenging scenario in the summer months.

Last year, Aguas Andinas was strongly criticized as unexpected summer rains caused widespread water cuts in Santiago.