The new drinking water production plant in the Lausanne region will cost more than expected. The general budget of the project, estimated at 82 million francs in 2018, is now estimated at 125 million by the City of Lausanne.
The Water Service has begun implementing the “Saint-Sulpice II” project, a pioneering water treatment plant, in particular with a so-called multi-barrier approach. “If from a technical point of view, its realization is a success, the observation is different concerning its budget. It appeared that the estimated amount will not cover all the costs”, recognizes the Water Service in a notice written in April and relayed Tuesday by 24 hours.
The replacement of a company linked to the project explains in particular the increase in the budget. Similarly, the invasion of quagga mussels in Lake Geneva caused an increase in costs: the water intake and discharge system in the lake had to be reviewed to prevent the mollusc from blocking the pipes.
The Water Service lists several other explanations: new requirements to prevent cyberattacks, additional costs in terms of earthworks, modification of the ventilation/dehumidification system or even an increase in the volume of concrete.
Investment for 50 years
To finance this new budget, the Lausanne Municipality is asking the Municipal Council for an initial additional credit of 10 million francs. “Its financing is fully compensated by a levy on the Reserve Fund of the Water Service”, specifies the notice.
Questioned by 24 hours, the municipal in charge of water, Pierre-Antoine Hildbrand, justifies this upward revision of the budget. “It will be the flagship factory for all of Lake Geneva. It will be the most efficient factory; we are investing here for fifty years,” he says.
Commissioned in 1971, the current water pumping and filtration station is reaching the end of its life in Saint-Sulpice. The new facility will be located at the same location as the old one, which will remain in service until the end of the transition.
Pierre-Antoine Hildbrand explains that the work could be put to the survey this summer, while its commissioning could take place by 2027/2028.
This article has been published automatically. Source: ats