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Project Code [2012-W-MS-10]
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Project title
Increasing Resource Efficiency in Waste Water Treatment Plants
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
Dublin City University (DCU)
Lead Applicant
Lorna Fitzsimons
Project Abstract
This proposed research brings together key expertise in waste water treatment and energy/resource efficiency. Waste water treatment is a resource intensive process. To put this in an Irish context, the treatment of waste water accounts for approximately 50% of local authorities' energy costs. In the United States the treatment of waste water accounts for 3% of total electrical load. These figures are expected to increase with increasing demand and with increasing environmental regulations and standards. With this in mind, the key objectives of this project are to benchmark Waste Water Treatment Plants (WWTP) resource consumption and to demonstrate significant waste water treatment energy efficiency improvements. It is important, however, to ensure that reducing resource consumption in waste water treatment does not result in unacceptable reductions in water quality. Targeted WWTP for this proposed research include Shanganagh WWTP, a state-of-the art, newly commissioned plant and the Tuam WWTP and Waste Water Treatment Demonstration facility. The research adopts a multi-faceted approach and includes a number of key methodologies to benchmark and optimise resource efficiency and to model and validate water quality. The final project outcomes will include; � Final Report including detailed analysis of results submitted to the research funding agency and the stakeholders � Peer reviewed Journal publications and Oral/Poster presentations at conferences � 2 page summary report for the EPA web-site � Planned Collaborations and Networking both nationally (UCC, NUIG, Shanganagh WWTP, and Dun-Laoghaire Rathdown CC) thereby increasing knowledge transfer and building capacity and competency in this highly relevant area. � Benchmarking and Good practice guidelines based on Best Practice. In addition it is planned to hold a Waste water treatment industry seminar/workshop.
Grant Approved
�296,187.60
Research Hub
Natural Environment
Research Theme
Protecting our Water Resources
Initial Projected Completion Date
18/03/2015