The operation of domestic or industrial wastewater treatment plants involves intensive energy usage due to the processes and equipment involved. Energy cost is one of the most significant factors affecting the operational expenses of wastewater treatment facilities. Therefore, energy management is a crucial aspect in wastewater treatment plants.
Wastewater treatment aims to remove chemical and biological pollutants from water systems to protect the environment and public health. The design of a wastewater treatment facility is intended to meet specific wastewater discharge requirements. In traditional wastewater treatment plants, it is observed that approximately 25-40% of operating costs are attributed to energy consumption.
High energy consumption is prevalent in wastewater treatment facilities. In traditional plants, energy consumption is mainly attributed to the aeration of mixed liquids, sludge pumping for primary and secondary sedimentation, and sludge dewatering.
Energy management in wastewater treatment facilities aims to achieve desired wastewater treatment discharge standards at minimal cost. Additionally, for sustainable development, the goal is to use energy in an appropriate and continuous manner. Energy management applies to various processes, from the design to the operation of wastewater treatment plants.
Energy management can be achieved by analyzing and optimizing all these processes. To ensure energy management in wastewater treatment facilities, attention should be paid to certain points during the design phase.
Processes that consume the least energy while meeting quality standards should be selected in wastewater treatment systems. High-efficiency, low-energy-consuming treatment equipment should be preferred. The necessary energy supply for the treatment plant should be secured.
In process selection, wastewater treatment processes with low energy requirements that meet the desired treatment discharge limits should be favored. During the design of the treatment plant, topographic surveys are utilized after connection pipes, treatment processes, and various details are implemented. Effective hydraulic planning reduces the loss of load in treatment units and enables the construction of a plant requiring fewer pumps.
The amount of energy in wastewater treatment facilities can vary based on the equipment present. The selection of high-efficiency yet low-energy treatment equipment can lead to significant energy savings in the treatment plant. When it comes to energy usage in treatment plants, proper selection of pumps and air blowers considering their placement is highly crucial.
