Waste-to-energy tech could slash carbon emissions, but its promise remains underdeveloped

Wastewater-to-energy systems is a technology that is gaining traction in North America as governments are setting net zero goals to morph our current landscape into one more friendly to the environment. Climate change is prompting everyone to consider how they can be more “circular” and utilities can be part of this solution.

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have a built-in source of renewable energy – its running right through their pipes. Harnessing the chemical energy in sewage sludge can produce methane-rich biogas. Utilities can use this energy to power their own treatment works, or they can sell it back to the grid as renewable natural gas (RNG) or electricity.

This process is a win-win. By generating its own energy, the facility can cut its electricity bill and even sell back a surplus. Utilities can slash their net emissions in the process, as methane emissions from the sewage displaces fossil fuel-powered energy.

Stantec experts, John Ord and David Goldwater highlight what has happened to launch this technology on the international stage and what needs to happen for these facilities to really take off in the United States.

Read the full article in Circle of Blue.