Poseidon Water: A Pioneer in Carlsbad’s Blue Tech Industry and a Champion of Conservation

In the picturesque City of Carlsbad, we pride ourselves on our active, outdoorsy lifestyle, enjoying world-class golf courses, groundbreaking life science labs, and nationally-renowned craft breweries. At the heart of all these experiences lies an indispensable ingredient: water.  

While water may appear abundant, it is a limited resource. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that less than one percent of the planet’s water is available for human use. Despite a wet year, the San Diego region continues to face more and more drought conditions, meaning water conservation is of utmost importance.

Innovation in the water sector is essential to ensure long-term water conservation. With the burgeoning global population and climate change-induced water scarcity, the traditional methods of water management are proving to be inadequate. Companies are now called upon to think creatively and innovatively to address these pressing concerns.

Innovative approaches such as smart water grids, advanced filtration and desalination technologies, and water reuse systems are needed to not only meet current demands but also safeguard our water future. These breakthroughs not only have the potential to drastically reduce water wastage but also to improve the efficiency of water use across various sectors. 

To address these challenges and contribute to the region’s drought resilience, Poseidon Water operates the Carlsbad Desalination Plant, producing more than 50 million gallons of high-quality drinking water daily, enough to serve around 400,000 San Diego County residents. This plant accounts for 38 percent of all local water sources, making it the county’s largest single local water source.

Ariel view of the Carlsbad Desalination Plant 

Poseidon Water’s commitment to innovation and conservation doesn’t end there. The company is currently constructing a new seawater intake system after the decommissioning of the Encina Power Station. This intake will be the first to comply with the California Ocean Plan Amendment and adhere to rigorous environmental standards set by state and local agencies.

Carlsbad is home to Poseidon Water’s headquarters, and the company’s presence in the city highlights its role as a pioneer in the Blue Tech industry. Blue Tech focuses on sustainable management and development of water resources, a mission that aligns with Poseidon Water’s goals. Carlsbad offers a perfect environment for nurturing this industry, as it fosters innovation and demonstrates a commitment to sustainable water solutions.

The Carlsbad Desalination Plant uses reverse osmosis to produce approximately 10% of the region’s water supply; it is a core supply regardless of weather conditions, and it is blended with water from other sources for regional distribution. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

CEO Carlos Riva has previously explained why Poseidon Water chose Carlsbad, stating, “Carlsbad is a thriving community that provides a highly skilled workforce, a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, and an ideal setting for innovation in the Blue Tech industry. We are proud to be part of this dynamic community that shares our vision for a sustainable and water-secure future.” 

By reducing water usage, we not only help the planet but also improve our bottom line. The City of Carlsbad, in collaboration with the San Diego County Water Authority, offers businesses rebates for various water-saving measures. Our city’s commitment to water conservation is further demonstrated by its advanced recycled water system, one of the most robust in the state.

 Fish-friendly seawater intake pumps, recently commissioned at the Carlsbad Desalination Plant, are among the most environmentally advanced intake pumps in the world. The pumps are part of a broader effort to ensure the long-term health of the marine environment near the Plant, which sits on the shores of Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

Water innovation in San Diego, California contributes significantly to the local economy, as it creates a reliable foundation for businesses and residents alike to thrive. Without reliable water, we risk losing businesses, industries, and residents to other parts of the country.

By fostering innovation, water businesses can contribute significantly to a sustainable, water-secure world, ensuring that this vital resource is conserved and available for generations to come. Poseidon Water is just one Blue Tech company redefining the sector with its innovative and drought-proof solutions. Striving to address one of the world’s most pressing environmental issues, the company is pioneering technologies that can provide a sustainable and reliable supply of water, even in the face of severe drought conditions.

Through harnessing the power of the sea through advanced desalination methods, Poseidon Water is delivering groundbreaking developments that have the potential to reshape our relationship with water. Their work is not just about securing our water future, but also about transforming the industry’s approach to water management, making it more resilient, sustainable, and efficient.

Supporting innovative companies like Poseidon Water, water businesses can contribute significantly to a sustainable, water-secure world, ensuring that this vital resource is conserved and available for generations to come.

This article was written with AI assistance.