Reducing Fossil Fuel Consumption by Incorporating Renewable Energy Sources in Wastewater Treatment Processes

Abstract

Various types of aqueous solutions are disposed of in residential, institutional, commercial, and industrial buildings. The wastewater must be treated to remove pathogens (bacteria, viruses), nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus), and other compounds in order to maintain public health and the environment. Accumulation of untreated sewage can result in a wide range of nuisances. Most of Israel's wastewater is purified and used for irrigation every year, which amounts to 530 million cubic meters. Approximately 80 percent of wastewater recovered in Israel is recycled. By treating wastewater appropriately, agriculture, tourism, gardening, and industry can benefit. The presence of raw sewage in settlements with no sewage collection or transportation networks continues to pose a great threat even today. There is a significant energy consumption associated with wastewater treatment processes. In this study, solar energy was attempted to be integrated as a renewable energy source. With Renewable Energy Sources integrated into the process, costs will be reduced, and it will also be possible to establish decentralized facilities in areas without proper infrastructure for traditional treatment methods.