Influence of Applying Value Engineering Concept in Project Case Study: Deir El Balah Desalination Plant

Abstract

One of the most important challenges that face the people in developing countries is the scarcity of natural water resources along with continuous growth of consumption level. A huge deficit in aquifers balance forces the authorities to look for an optimal alternative source to overcome the scarcity of water through seawater desalination. The aim of this research is to use the Value Engineering concept in desalination water station. A survey was conducted to elaborate the most important factors affecting the establishment of the desalination plant. Moreover, several interviews were conducted with experts in the field to crosscheck the validity of the survey results. The findings of field investigation were used in applying the Value-Engineering concept on a selected case study located in Gaza Strip: Deir El Balah desalination plant in order to examine the impact of application of Value Engineering on the project effective cost. It was found that there is direct impact in cost saving of approximately 10.33 % for the project cost in design and tendering stages. It was confirmed that applying Value Engineering is very helpful tool for such projects, which will lead to significant cost saving.