- Six proposals submitted under the Long-Term Water Augmentation Fund.
- Projects include ocean water, surface water, wastewater, and other sources.
- Three qualified teams advanced to this stage after initial review.
- WIFA Board will evaluate viability before long-term agreements.
Friday, August 28, 2025 — The Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona (WIFA) announced on August 20 that it has received six proposals
for water importation projects as part of its Long-Term Water Augmentation Fund solicitation.
Seventeen teams initially submitted qualifications for developing renewable water supplies. After review, three teams were deemed qualified to submit offers. Those teams—Acciona-Fengate Water Augmentation Alliance, EPCOR Water Innovation Partners, and ZARETAW, LLC—produced six project proposals.
Project Categories.
The proposals cover a range of approaches to new water supplies:
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Ocean water: Acciona-Fengate, EPCOR, and ZARETAW.
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Surface water: EPCOR.
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Wastewater reclamation: EPCOR.
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Other water sources: EPCOR.
Statement from WIFA.
“Today’s announcement represents significant progress in WIFA’s mission to advance water augmentation projects that help secure Arizona’s water future,” said Ted Cooke, chairman of the Long-Term Water Augmentation Fund Committee. He added that the proposals show both the capacity and capability to develop renewable water supplies and that the evaluation process is proceeding with a deliberate, methodical approach.
Next Steps in the Process.
If approved by the Board, the qualified teams will contract with WIFA to conduct additional analysis, including engineering, financial capability, permitting, and other requirements. WIFA will provide financial support for this stage, ensuring each option can be objectively assessed before any long-term commitments are made.
This evaluation will help WIFA compare the proposals and decide whether to move forward with a water augmentation project.
About WIFA.
WIFA is a state agency that invests in water supply sustainability through augmentation, conservation, reuse, and water quality projects. It administers the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds and has invested nearly $3 billion in Arizona communities over the past three decades.
