Our study included cost-benefit analysis and highlighted potential operational risks, specifying where further investigation was required and identifying priority projects for detailed feasibility studies and implementation.
Aggregation of marginal gains
Real-time control of dissolved oxygen in aeration lanes offers a ‘quick win’ opportunity for energy saving – oxygenation is often greater than required by the treatment load. Odour control units were also found to be working harder than necessary, while the potential of combined heat and power could be increased by improving biogas quantity and quality. Additional savings were offered by decanting digested sludge prior to dewatering, and managing plant operation and maintenance to minimise pumping activity. Total potential annual savings were estimated to be £210,000 across all four sites, with payback taking from five to a maximum of 17 months.
Client: Dwr Cymru/Welsh Water