The catalyst for this transformation was an energy audit conducted by Jacobs in 2022 at the Moccasin Bend Water Treatment Facility. This audit revealed a number of inefficiencies and outdated technologies that were contributing to high operating costs and environmental concerns. 

MABR vs. HPO: A Technological Advance 

One of the most significant issues identified was the facility’s reliance on a high-purity oxygen (HPO) process for sludge treatment. This outdated method was both energy-intensive and inefficient. Jacobs recommended replacing it with a membrane aerated biofilm reactor (MABR), a more advanced technology that offers superior performance and lower energy consumption. 

Unlike HPO, which requires the continuous introduction of oxygen gas into the wastewater, MABR utilizes a membrane to facilitate the transfer of oxygen from the air to the wastewater. This passive oxygen transfer process is more efficient and energy-saving than the active aeration employed in HPO. Additionally, the biofilm that forms on the membrane surface in MABR provides a highly effective environment for microbial activity, leading to improved sludge degradation and nutrient removal. This enhanced biological performance, coupled with the reduced energy consumption, makes MABR a more sustainable and cost-effective option for sludge treatment compared to HPO. 

Optimizing Efficiency  

In addition to the MABR, Jacobs suggested several other improvements, including converting the solids train from lime stabilization to thermal hydrolysis (THP) and mesophilic anaerobic digestion (MAD), and incorporating fine bubble aeration to further reduce energy costs. 

The proposed improvements to the solids train and aeration system would also contribute to increased energy efficiency. THP involves subjecting the sludge to high temperatures and pressures, which breaks down organic matter and improves its biodegradability. This pre-treatment step enhances the efficiency of subsequent anaerobic digestion, leading to increased biogas production. The biogas can then be used to generate electricity or heat, reducing the facility’s reliance on external energy sources.  

Fine bubble aeration, which involves the introduction of small air bubbles into the wastewater, promotes more efficient oxygen transfer and reduces the amount of energy required for aeration. By optimizing the solids treatment process and implementing energy-efficient aeration techniques, the facility could achieve significant reductions in overall energy consumption. 

How the Project Will Pay for Itself 

The proposed changes came with a significant price tag of $136 million. However, Jacobs’ analysis demonstrated that the long-term benefits would far outweigh the initial investment. The optimized operation at Moccasin Bend was estimated to generate savings in several areas, including biosolids reduction, increased biogas production, reduced hypochlorite demand, energy savings, and reduced cake hauling costs. Moreover, the facility was expected to generate additional revenue through the sale of biogas. Jacobs estimated that the savings and revenue from the changes would cover the costs of the investment in approximately 15 years. 

Key Takeaways 

The successful transformation of Chattanooga’s water treatment infrastructure demonstrates the transformative power of innovative technology and strategic planning. By embracing a holistic approach and investing in advanced solutions, municipalities can achieve significant improvements in efficiency, cost-effectiveness, environmental sustainability, and community well-being. The lessons learned from Chattanooga’s experience can serve as a valuable guide for other communities seeking to modernize their water treatment facilities and create a more sustainable future. Here are the key takeaways for other municipalities looking to cut costs and invest in sustainability: 

• The power of technology: Advanced technologies like MABR can offer substantial improvements in efficiency and cost-effectiveness. 

• Holistic approach: Addressing multiple areas of the water treatment process can yield even greater benefits. 

• Long-term investment: While the initial investment may be significant, the long-term savings and revenue can justify the cost. 

• Environmental benefits: Improved water treatment practices can also contribute to environmental sustainability. 

• Community impact: These improvements can have a positive impact on the community by ensuring access to clean water and reducing environmental pollution. 

• Industry leadership: By adopting innovative solutions, Chattanooga has positioned itself as a leader in water treatment and sustainability. 

• Economic benefits: The project has created jobs and stimulated local economic growth. 

• Resilience and adaptability: The project demonstrates the importance of adaptability in the face of changing environmental conditions and regulatory requirements. 

• Public-private partnerships: Successful water treatment projects often involve collaboration between public and private sectors. 

• Data-driven decision-making: The use of data and analytics can help identify inefficiencies and optimize operations. 

• Continuous improvement: Successful water treatment facilities are committed to ongoing improvement and innovation. 

The success of Chattanooga’s water treatment project highlights the importance of a holistic approach to infrastructure management. By addressing these multiple areas of the treatment process, municipalities can maximize the benefits of their investments and achieve significant cost savings and environmental improvements. This case study serves as a valuable example for other communities seeking to improve their water treatment facilities and promote sustainability. 

SOURCES: Water, Water Technology Online 

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What is Aerobic Granular Sludge (AGS)? 

AGS is a biological treatment process that involves cultivating microbial aggregates, or granules, in a wastewater environment. These granules are composed of various bacterial species, each playing a specific role in removing pollutants like nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic matter. Unlike traditional activated sludge, AGS offers several key benefits, including: 

• Enhanced pollutant removal: AGS can simultaneously remove multiple pollutants, making it a more comprehensive treatment solution. 

• Improved settling: The granular nature of the sludge allows for faster and more efficient settling, reducing the need for large settling tanks. 

• Reduced energy consumption: AGS systems often require less energy compared to conventional activated sludge systems. 

• Smaller footprint: The compact nature of AGS processes can lead to smaller treatment plants, saving on construction costs and land requirements. 

Case Study: Reconstructing a Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant 

The recent article in Processes by Hutňan et al. provides a valuable case study in using this treatment process. The authors describe a wastewater treatment plant that was struggling to meet regulatory standards. By implementing AGS technology, the plant was able to significantly improve its performance and achieve the required water quality parameters: 

• Enhanced pollutant removal: The AGS system successfully removed ammonia, nitrate nitrogen, and orthophosphate phosphorus to levels below regulatory limits. 

• Improved efficiency: The reconstructed plant achieved these results without increasing energy consumption, demonstrating the efficiency of AGS technology. 

• Granule formation: While complete granulation was not achieved, the sludge exhibited characteristics similar to AGS, suggesting the potential for further optimization. 

Aerobic granular sludge offers a promising, customizable solution for wastewater treatment, providing enhanced pollutant removal, improved efficiency, and reduced environmental impact.  

The case study presented in the article demonstrates the successful application of AGS technology in a municipal wastewater treatment plant. As research and development continue, we can expect to see even more widespread adoption of this innovative approach in the future, as well as exploring the potential of AGS for treating emerging contaminants, such as pharmaceuticals and microplastics. 

By understanding the advantages and potential of AGS, water treatment professionals can make informed decisions about adopting this technology to improve the performance and sustainability of their own facilities. 

SOURCES: Current Science, Processes, Environmental Science: Water Research & Technology 

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What is Anaerobic Digestion?

Anaerobic digestion is a biological process where microorganisms break down organic matter, such as animal manure, wastewater biosolids, and food waste, in the absence of oxygen. This process results in two primary products: biogas and digestate. Biogas, predominantly composed of methane and carbon dioxide, can be utilized as a renewable energy source, while digestate, rich in nutrients, can be used as fertilizer.

The Four Stages of Anaerobic Digestion

1. Hydrolysis: Bacteria break down complex organic compounds like carbohydrates into simple sugars.
2. Acidogenesis: The simple sugars and amino acids are converted into carbon dioxide, ammonia, and organic acids.
3. Acetogenesis: Organic acids are transformed into acetic acid, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen.
4. Methanogenesis: Methanogens produce biogas from acetic acid, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide.

Benefits of Anaerobic Digestion

Anaerobic digestion offers several advantages:

• Volume Reduction: Significantly decreases the volume of sludge, making it easier to handle and dispose of.
• Pollutant Removal: Eliminates harmful pollutants such as heavy metals and xenobiotics, improving water quality.
• Biogas Production: Generates a renewable energy source, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to energy sustainability.
• Nutrient-Rich Digestate: Provides a valuable byproduct that can be used as a fertilizer, promoting sustainable agriculture.

Challenges and Considerations

While anaerobic digestion is highly beneficial, several factors must be managed to optimize the process:

• Screening and Degritting: Removing large materials and grit prevents maintenance issues and ensures smooth operation.
• Temperature and pH Control: Maintaining optimal conditions is crucial for the efficiency of the microorganisms involved.
• Handling Fine Suspended Solids: Ammonia and salts can affect the digestion process and must be monitored.
• Digestate Management: High phosphate levels in the digestate may require treatment to prevent water eutrophication, especially in areas with stringent nutrient discharge regulations.

Regulatory Framework

Anaerobic digestion systems must comply with various federal and state regulations:

• EPA Guidelines: The US EPA provides tools and guidelines, including the Co-digestion Economic Analysis Tool (Co-EAT) and a biogas toolkit, to help facilities optimize their anaerobic digestion processes and comply with regulatory requirements.
• State Regulations: Specific state regulations for wastewater anaerobic digesters can be found on respective state websites, ensuring adherence to local standards.
• Conservation Practice Standards: These standards guide the implementation of anaerobic digesters for waste management systems, promoting best practices.
• Emission Reporting: Federal requirements mandate the reporting of methane gas emissions and monitoring of organic material concentration in wastewater.

Enhancing Anaerobic Digestion Efficiency

To maximize the benefits of anaerobic digestion, pretreatment steps such as physical, thermal, or chemical methods may be necessary. These steps help optimize the digestion process, ensuring efficient breakdown of organic material and enhancing biogas production.

Anaerobic digestion is a powerful tool in wastewater treatment, offering numerous benefits including sludge volume reduction, pollutant removal, and biogas production. However, it requires careful management and adherence to regulatory standards to optimize its performance. By understanding and addressing the challenges associated with anaerobic digestion, water treatment professionals can enhance the efficiency of their operations and contribute to a more sustainable future. SOURCE: Wastewater Digest

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However, a shift in perspective has led to the development of technologies aimed at nutrient recovery, particularly phosphorous and nitrogen, from sludge. This method holds promise for creating effective fertilizers from wastewater, presenting a win-win scenario for both environmental sustainability and agricultural productivity.

Technical Manager Leif Ydstebø and microbiologist Erik Norgaard have been at the forefront of these efforts. Their work involves not only the technological advancement of nutrient recovery systems but also addressing the regulatory and market challenges associated with introducing sludge-based fertilizers to farmers. Despite initial skepticism, the lower cost and environmental benefits of these organic fertilizers have piqued the interest of the farming community.

This initiative is particularly timely, given the global scarcity of phosphorous and the critical role it plays in agriculture. By recycling phosphorous and nitrogen, the water treatment sector is not only addressing environmental concerns but also contributing to global food security. The technology developed for this purpose is undergoing rigorous testing to ensure its suitability and effectiveness for various wastewater treatment facilities.

The efforts of IVAR and HØST in Norway have been exemplary, demonstrating the potential for large-scale nutrient recovery and fertilizer production. These endeavors are not just about technological innovation; they also involve navigating the complex landscape of regulatory requirements and market dynamics. Success in this area requires a stable regulatory framework and an understanding of the agricultural market, aspects that Norgaard and his team have been diligently working on.

As this technology continues to evolve, it opens up significant opportunities for the export of recovered fertilizers, further highlighting the global relevance of nutrient recovery from wastewater. The water treatment industry is at a pivotal point, where technological innovation meets environmental stewardship and agricultural needs. This convergence presents a promising path forward, offering solutions that are sustainable, economically viable, and beneficial for communities around the world.

These developments represent a significant shift towards more sustainable and resource-efficient practices in farming and water treatment. As the industry continues to evolve, the integration of nutrient recovery technologies into wastewater treatment processes will likely become a standard, underscoring the sector’s role in promoting environmental sustainability and supporting global agriculture. 

Resources:
Phys.org

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Pumping systems are the primary energy consumers in water treatment plants. A study by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) highlights that optimizing these systems through variable frequency drives (VFDs) and efficient pump design can lead to substantial energy savings. The California Energy Commission’s guide on energy efficiency in water utilities underscores the importance of regular maintenance and system upgrades to ensure optimal pumping efficiency. Implementing advanced process control and automation is a key strategy for energy optimization. Real-time monitoring and control systems can significantly enhance process efficiency, as evidenced by a case study published in the Journal of Water Process Engineering, which shows how automation led to energy savings in a wastewater treatment plant. These systems allow for the precise control of aeration, filtration, and other energy-intensive processes. 

Wastewater itself can be a source of energy too. Technologies like anaerobic digestion and thermal hydrolysis enable the extraction of biogas from sludge, which can be converted into electricity or heat. The Water Environment Federation (WEF) provides extensive resources on energy recovery options and their implementation in water treatment facilities. Energy efficiency can also be achieved through smart design of the facilities themselves. The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) suggests that incorporating energy-efficient lighting, insulation, and HVAC systems can significantly reduce a facility’s energy demand. Educating staff about energy-saving practices is crucial. The Alliance to Save Energy emphasizes the role of employee engagement in promoting a culture of sustainability within utilities, leading to more conscientious energy use. 

The path to energy efficiency in water treatment facilities is multi-faceted, involving technological upgrades, process optimization, and a commitment to sustainability at all organizational levels. By adopting these strategies, facilities can not only reduce their operational costs but also contribute to broader environmental goals. As the sector continues to innovate, embracing energy efficiency will remain a key factor in its evolution, ensuring that water treatment processes are sustainable for future generations. 
 

SOURCES: EPA, Atlas of the Future, EPRI, California Energy Commission

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When selecting a smart water solution for real-time automated monitoring and reporting, look for a software platform that offers management apps and tools to help you and your team meet water management compliance requirements. And look for platforms that give you and your team visibility into real-time performance, organized reporting, auditing, centralized sampling, and compliance.

Here are some renowned approaches and technologies in the smart water management sector to assist your team in enhancing water distribution, minimizing leaks, and boosting overall system efficiency. These solutions also contribute to effective mapping and management of water networks.

1. Integrated Software Platforms: Some platforms offer a comprehensive suite of applications and tools designed for smart water management. These platforms cover various aspects including GIS mapping, asset management, IoT and remote monitoring, and real-time event management.
2. AI-Driven Water Management: There are advanced platforms utilizing AI to monitor and control the performance of water and wastewater infrastructure. These systems provide real-time data monitoring, predictive analytics, and automation, helping you optimize water distribution, reduce energy consumption, and improve operational efficiency.
3. Remote Monitoring Solutions: Certain solutions specialize in remote monitoring and control of wastewater networks. They provide end-to-end solutions and software platforms for managing data from wastewater networks and remote field assets. These platforms enable real-time data collection, integrated analytics, and automated reporting, aiding in water quality and flow rate monitoring while streamlining operations.
4. Acoustic-Based Monitoring: Acoustic monitoring solutions are available for water infrastructure, aiding professionals in leak detection, pipe condition assessment, and maintenance prioritization. By promptly identifying and addressing issues, these solutions enhance system reliability and minimize water loss.
5. Advanced Data Analytics Platforms: Various smart water solutions exist that include advanced monitoring and data analytics software. These platforms collect and analyze data from sensors, meters, and other sources, providing insights for better decision-making. They support water quality, pressure, and flow rate monitoring while optimizing resource allocation.

By exploring and adopting these smart water management strategies, your team can work towards a more efficient and reliable water distribution system.

Benefits of Smart Water Technology 

Real-time data: Access to real-time data on water quality, flow rates, pressure, and other parameters, allowing professionals to monitor and respond promptly to anomalies or issues.

Improved efficiency: Automation and predictive analytics help optimize resource allocation, reduce energy consumption, and enhance overall operational efficiency.

Leak detection and prevention: Advanced monitoring software can detect leaks and help professionals prioritize repairs, minimizing water loss and reducing non-revenue water.

Asset management: Integrated asset management tools enable professionals to monitor the condition of infrastructure, prioritize maintenance activities, and extend the lifespan of water assets.

Enhanced decision-making: By utilizing data analytics and advanced reporting capabilities, professionals can make informed decisions to optimize processes, allocate resources efficiently, and improve water system performance.

Real-time water use measurements, efficient water use that minimizes non-revenue water costs, and sensible maintenance are just some of the benefits of smart water technology that you and you water facilities management team can realize when implementing smart water technology.

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