Recovering energy and raw materials from wastewater treatment plants

ETIS: an innovatvie solution for sustainable wastewater treatment

ETIS (Ecological Transition Innovative Solution) is an advanced system developed by SDG, offering an efficient alternative to traditional wastewater treatment methods. Based on assisted chemical precipitation and alkaline hydrolysis, ETIS transforms wastewater treatment plants into valuable sources of energy and raw materials.

Wastewater treatment plants play a crucial role in protecting the environment and public health. However, their potential for energy production and resource recovery is often overlooked. Our goal is to enhance the value of urban and industrial wastewater, reducing operational costs and environmental impact while converting waste into resources.

Towards Energy Neutrality: New European Regulations

On April 10, 2024, the European Union approved a new regulation on the collection, treatment, and disposal of urban wastewater, introducing a key objective:

Energy Neutrality

By 2045, wastewater treatment plants must generate energy from renewable sources, following periodic energy audits and achieving progressive milestones. Up to 35% of non-fossil energy can be sourced externally to meet the final target.

Strategies for efficiency and energy self-sufficiency include:
– Sludge and waste valorization
– Biogas and biomethane production
– Hydrogen production

Why Recover Energy from Wastewater Treatment Plants?

Wastewater treatment plants operate 24/7, consuming significant amounts of energy. However, these plants also generate energy in various forms, which can be recovered to reduce operational costs and enhance sustainability.

Energy Sources in Wastewater Treatment Plants

Ammonia – A byproduct of wastewater treatment that can be recovered and used in fertilizers, refrigerants, and as a hydrogen carrier in the energy transition.

Biogas – Produced from the decomposition of organic waste, it is a valuable energy source primarily composed of methane and carbon dioxide.

Thermal Energy – Heat generated during water treatment can be captured and reused, significantly improving the plant’s overall energy efficiency.

Advanced Energy Recovery Techniques

Cogeneration (CHP – Combined Heat and Power)
Utilizes biogas to generate both electricity and heat, maximizing energy efficiency.

Heat Exchangers
Recover residual thermal energy from wastewater treatment processes, reducing overall energy consumption.

Benefits of the ETIS System

Thanks to ETIS technology, wastewater treatment can become more sustainable, offering numerous environmental and economic benefits:
1⃣ Energy self-sufficiency through increased biogas and electricity production
2⃣ Reduction of CO₂ emissions
3⃣ Recovery of ammonium salts for industrial and agricultural use
4⃣ Biomethane production
5⃣ Reduction of excess sludge volume
6⃣ Elimination of emerging contaminants, such as endocrine disruptors(EDCs)

Contact SDG Depurazioni for a Tailored Solution

If you want to optimize wastewater treatment and make your plant more efficient and sustainable, SDG Depurazioni is here to help.

Request an on-site assessment and a customized quote

Our expert technicians will analyze the water characteristics and recommend the best solutions for your needs.
Contact us today for a cleaner and more sustainable future!