Consider Energy‐Saving Options for Wastewater Treatment Plants

Abstract

According to the US Department of Energy, as much as 10 percent of a local government's budget is typically allocated to energy use. On average, more than one‐third of that municipal energy usage—about 35 percent—is used to provide water and wastewater services. For a typical wastewater treatment facility, electrical usage accounts for 25–40 percent of the annual operating budget. Overall, the US Environmental Protection Agency estimates that water and wastewater utilities use about 3–4 percent of total US energy consumed.