Minimizing energy consumption in Wastewater Treatment Plants

Abstract

This paper discusses the energy conservation opportunities in Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) often considered as extensive energy consumers. It focuses on the top four energy intensive processes: waste activated sludge, primary clarification, solids dewatering and heating. This study presents energy management alternatives to lower energy consumption and avoid energy peaks in large scale WWTP will be discussed. Alexandria East WWTP is considered as a case study to investigate energy reduction potential through implementation of Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) and Energy Efficient Motors (EEMs). In addition, a comparative feasibility study of different scenarios is presented using simple payback period method.