Research Activities

ACET research activities are listed below.

In light of rising energy and production costs, emissions, and a changing climate, concerns relating to energy use are becoming more and more important on a global scale. An average of 60% of a wastewater treatment plant’s operational expenses go toward energy for aeration. The United Nations estimates that up until 2030, implementing energy efficiency measures would be responsible for more than 65% of the reductions in emissions related to energy. Aeration of wastewater accounts for an estimated 2% of total global electricity consumption, making the water sector one of the top industrial energy consumers. Therefore, it is preferable for the environmental and financial health of wastewater treatment plants if operators can develop ways to consume less energy.

1. Performance of Current Processes

Through an on-site assessment, the research will assess energy usage and efficiency to pinpoint operational demands, maintenance issues, and outdated equipment. Utilize data on energy consumption to comprehend usage trends and assess potential energy-saving measures. Adopt audit suggestions by modifying operations.

2. Operational Modifications

The project team will assist wastewater treatment plant operators in routinely assessing the facilities' state, their operation, and the equipment's remaining usable life. Older technology is less effective, might be expensive to fix, and often uses more energy. The aeration phase will serve as the starting point for efficiencies because it is this operation that uses the most energy in a wastewater treatment plant.

3. The new Wastewater Treatment Efficient System is Comprehendable and Acceptable by the Staff

Meeting energy goals and identifying new potential for efficiency requires training treatment system operators on the connection between energy efficiency and facility operations. By involving the operators in the process and soliciting their input, efficiency measures are proposed and accepted. Since the operators are involved in the procedures every day across all stages of the facility, their knowledge is important.