Veolia, a global leader in environmental solutions, and SBM Offshore, a pioneer in deepwater ocean infrastructure, have announced a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding to combat one of the most pressing challenges of our time: the intersection of water scarcity, energy transition, and industrial transformation.
Under the partnership, the companies will develop and deploy innovative floating production units (FPUs) that combine Veolia’s advanced reverse osmosis desalination technology with SBM’s offshore engineering expertise, creating a sustainable, ocean-based solution to global water demand.
“These floating desalination units will be able to produce up to 100,000 cubic meters of freshwater daily — enough to serve approximately 500,000 people,” the companies said. The units can be deployed rapidly, scaled to meet evolving needs, and relocated as demand shifts, offering industrial clients water independence while reducing competition with local communities and promoting environmental stewardship.
The partnership targets water-stressed sectors including municipal systems in coastal areas, mining operations in arid regions, and heavy industries transitioning to lower-carbon operations.
“This partnership with Veolia marks an important moment in SBM Offshore’s journey to diversify our business. By combining our expertise in ocean infrastructure with Veolia’s leading desalination technology, we are taking bold steps to deliver sustainable solutions for water-stressed regions. Together, we are unlocking new markets in the blue economy and reaffirming our commitment to a responsible energy transition,” said Olivier Icyk, SBM’s Chief Business Officer.
Veolia CEO Arnaud Valleteau emphasized the strategic importance of water security: “Water security has become inseparable from energy security, resource security and industrial competitiveness. As industries transition to more sustainable operations, reliable water access has become a strategic imperative, not just an operational requirement.
"We are proud to collaborate with SBM Offshore, whose offshore engineering excellence is globally recognized, to deliver solutions that address this critical need with unprecedented flexibility and speed. This innovative partnership is a concrete example of our GreenUp strategic program in action, enabling industries and communities to build resilience, reduce their environmental footprint and secure their future in an increasingly water-constrained world.”
