The Macao Water Supply Company Limited - branded as Macao Water - has announced a net profit of around 95 million patacas (US$11.8 million) for last year, an increase of nearly seven percent from 2018, when it reported a net profit of 89 million patacas, up 15 percent year-on-year. "Overall, Macau maintained steady economic growth in 2019, driven by new buildings and facilities, as well as a consistent local tourism boost," the water utility said in a statement late last week.
The statement pointed out that Macau's annual water supply volume has exceeded 100 million cubic metres for two consecutive years, while water consumption reached 93 million cubic metres in 2019, up 2.1 percent annually.
According to the statement, the Macau peninsula accounted for 62 percent of the city's total water consumption last year, while Taipa, Cotai and Coloane accounted for 38 percent, of which Coloane recorded a "significant" increase of 10 percent. The statement underlined that Macao Water invested 340 million patacas last year in various projects such as construction of the Seac Pai Van Water Treatment Plant, the upgrading of pipeline infrastructure and the reinforcement of water facilities' resiliency during floods and other adverse incidents, as well as the enhancement of smart customer services.
The statement pointed out that the company is closely following the local government's guidelines in response to the COVID-19 epidemic. "This year, Macao Water will spare no effort to equip itself for the global challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and the ever-changing economic outlook," the statement said, pledging that the company will continue to fully support the local authorities.
According to the statement, one of Macao Water's targets this year is to prepare the Seac Pai Van Water Treatment Plant in Coloane for commissioning by the end of the year.
The Franco-Hong Kong joint venture company owned by Suez NWS Limited vowed to implement a "smart water strategy with innovative ideas, top-notch technology and eco-friendly materials in accordance with the Macao Water Supply Master Plan 2020-2024."
Macao Water marks its 85th anniversary this year.
