Energetic Optimisation of Wastewater Treatment Plant and Evaluation of Green House Gases

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) are said to consume significant energy and produce GHG emissions. Enhancing their efficiency is generally important to meet certain targets, especially the use of energy and the reduction of GHG emission at WWTPs. As the reduction in GHGs play a major role in promoting sustainability. This current study focuses on analysing the energy usage trends, the main sources of GHG emissions at WWTPs and at the same time suggest effective strategies for their enhancement. From the existing literature, a review has been conducted to explore the current approaches for decreasing energy consumption and GHG emissions at WWTPs. This literature review encompasses techniques like equipment replacement, retrofitting, process adjustments and incorporating energy sources simultaneously special focus is placed on aeration technologies, high efficiency pumps, biogas upgrading methods and innovative practices such as granular sludge, anaerobic ammonia oxidation and nutrient recovery systems. The strategies found from the review are designed to reduce energy consumption and release of harmful CH4 (methane) and Nitrous oxide (N20) which are the major contributors to the WWTPs GHG footprint. The baseline scenario outlines the utilization of data from the current literature in order to calculate energy consumption and GHG emissions. Prior to proceeding with the development and comparison of the two optimized scenario the establishment of the baseline scenario is the primary step. The decision to prioritize enhancing aeration stems from its ability to have an impact, on energy consumption in WWTPs given that aeration typically consumes the most energy. Even a small decrease in aeration energy usage can result in energy savings. On the other hand, the focus of the biogas enhancement plan is to improve the efficiency of biogas production, promote energy recovery and reduce GHG emissions. By comparing these two approaches a comprehensive assessment can be made regarding both energy conservation and recovery potential offering a rounded strategy for optimizing WWTP operations. The findings indicate that both strategies for improvement lead to reductions in energy consumption and emissions compared to the baseline scenario, with the biogas enhancement plan showing a higher potential for recovering energy. This study offers insights and actionable recommendations, for WWTP operators underscoring the significance of monitoring and adaptive management practices in achieving sustainable wastewater treatment processes.