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California

A downside to a seawater-to-drinking-water operation

The AES Huntington Beach Generating Station forms a backdrop to surfers enjoying a spring-like November morning. The California Coastal Commission is expected to vote this week on a proposed seawater desalination plant on a portion of the AES site.

The AES Huntington Beach Generating Station forms a backdrop to surfers enjoying a spring-like November morning. The California Coastal Commission is expected to vote this week on a proposed seawater desalination plant on a portion of the AES site.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

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A proposed seawater desalination plant in Huntington Beach could significantly harm parts of the Southern California ocean environment unless substantial changes are made in its design and operation, according to the staff of the state Coastal Commission.

Tapping into a nearby plant

All is quiet in Magnolia Marsh near the AES generating station. Stamford, Conn.-based Poseidon Resources’ proposed desalination plant would continue using AES’ offshore outfall and open ocean intake pipe, pulling in about 127 million gallons of coastal water every day.   (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Concern for the coast

Surfer Mark Heller does a headstand north of the Huntington Beach Pier on a recent November morning. To offset the environmental effects of the Huntington desalination operation, Poseidon proposes to restore about 12 acres of coastal wetlands, an amount the commission staff insists is insufficient.   (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

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