Mekorot stands in the forefront of technical knowhow, mainly due to its research projects, experiments and surveys in the field of water quality and water treatment. Mekorot systematically carries out these practices as part of an ongoing research and development program.
Surveys and research projects are implemented by the company’s employees or through collaborations with external organizations: universities, research institutes and scientists working in specialized fields. The ideas and suggestions originate from Mekorot’s staff or external organizations, and are examined by the certified sub-committees of the Higher Committee for Surveys and Engineering Studies.
When considering a research proposal, the committee examines the potential benefits for water quality, the possibilities for acquiring new knowledge and techniques and the efficiency of suggested processes and testing procedures. A representative of Mekorot accompanies the research teams of every research project, experiment or survey. The representative manages and supervises the team's performance, is responsible for developing a work schedule and ensures that the project keeps up with acceptable work standards and budget control.
Each year Mekorot’s professional committee examines new research proposals and previous year’s projects conclusions, and recommends to the Higher Committee which proposals are worth funding. In the last decade, over 550 research projects and surveys took place under the auspices of Mekorot.
Wastewater and Water Treatment Research Projects
• Water source research projects - focus on the expansion of available water sources, improvement of water desalination techniques, increasing rainfall and researching ways to integrate different water sources into the national water supply system.
• Desalination projects – looking for ways to improve the cost efficiency of desalination processes through Research and surveys. These projects test new technologies in desalination of both high salt content water and sea water.
Engineering Services Research Projects
• Water supply research - advancing water supply systems and their reliability by using new and hi-tech technologies and control systems models.
• Water treatment - research and development of efficient methods for water treatment. Optimization and upgrading of existing facilities.
• Control and security systems - developing methodologies and instruments of monitoring and controlling water sources.
Water Quality Research Projects
• Water Quality Research Projects - the goal being to constantly improve water quality, develop new treatment methods and to prevent water pollution. The Research concentrates on methods that increase the efficiency of the Central Filtration Plant. Other projects improve and advance control and security systems.