A consortium led by Thames Water has won more than £6 million from Ofwat’s first Water Breakthrough Challenge to help decarbonise wastewater treatment.
The water industry consumes between two and three per cent of the electricity produced in the UK - the same as around two million households - and around 55 per cent of the energy consumed by a typical sewage works is processing wastewater.
The consortium, which also comprises the University of South Wales, Welsh Water, South West Water, United Utilities, Scottish Water, Yorkshire Water and Northumbrian Water, will work together to develop cutting-edge bioprocesses to reduce the energy required for wastewater treatment.
The innovative operation will cut nitrous oxide emissions – while recovering beneficial resources including phosphorus and nitrogen – and will form a major part of the UK’s target to become net zero by 2030.
Sarah Bentley, Thames Water CEO, said:
“I’m passionate about leaving a legacy for future generations, just like the Victorians did for us. So, I’m delighted that we’ve won this award, which will allow us to change our approach to the wastewater treatment process in a way that will reduce our carbon footprint. It’s fantastic to be able to work alongside seven great organisations who share our drive to innovate and shape the future."
Prof Sandra Esteves, project lead at the University of South Wales, added:
“We have been at the forefront of R&D for anaerobic processes and recognise the importance that these bioprocesses can play in numerous sectors.
“The funding will enable the team to drive the novel concept integration and evaluate its impact in reducing society’s wastewater treatment energy footprint and in promoting sustainable resource recovery.”
The Water Breakthrough Challenge is run by Ofwat and Nesta Challenges in partnership with Arup and is the second in a series of competitions funded through the Fund following the Innovation in Water Challenge earlier this year.
A second Water Breakthrough Challenge will open for entries on October 11 to provide funding for further innovative water sector initiatives.
Up to £35 million will be available to be shared between entries that deliver benefits for water customers, society and the environment.
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