How much does reclaimed wastewater cost? A comprehensive analysis for irrigation uses in the European Mediterranean context

Abstract

The new European Union regulation on the minimum requirements for the use of reclaimed water for irrigation entered into force in June 2023, thereby imposing concerns regarding the costs of this non-conventional resource for potential users in the context of increasing water scarcity in the Mediterranean region. This research offers a comprehensive cost assessment of reclaimed water production based on the financial information gathered from wastewater treatment plants located on the Mediterranean coast of Andalusia (Southern Spain). The results offer valuable information for policy-makers, water operators, and potential users to assess the economic viability of utilising reclaimed water as an alternative source to scarce conventional resources.