Case Studies › Municipal / Water Utilities

Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant Modernization

Mid-sized 744,600 m³/year capacity municipal WWTP

Client

Mid-sized 744,600 m³/year capacity municipal WWTP

Industry

Municipal / Water Utilities

Services delivered

  • Control system modernization design and installation
  • Aeration system upgrade
  • On-site operational optimization
  • Energy efficiency program qualification

The challenge

The plant faced multiple challenges: an outdated control system rendered inoperable by age and lightning damage, inefficient aeration control, and high energy consumption.

Our approach

01
Control system modernization: new control system design and installation, new instruments including DO sensors and flow meters
02
Aeration system development: new DO probe installation, frequency drives added to three blowers, blower control implementation based on DO sensor signals, faulty diaphragm replacement
03
Operational optimization: six months on-site working with operators to optimize treatment process, parameter fine-tuning to increase efficiency and reduce electrical consumption, biological pool cleaning

Results

15% energy consumption reduction in the first year. After the six-month optimization period, energy reduction reached 25%. Achieved 0.75 kWh/m³ specific energy consumption. The total project investment cost recovered within 12 months. The electrical consumption reduction qualified the project for the White Certificate in Hungary's EKR system, allowing sale of Certified Energy Savings (HEM) — further improving payback.

Key outcomes

01

15% energy consumption reduction in first year

02

25% energy reduction after 6-month optimization

03

0.75 kWh/m³ specific energy consumption achieved

04

Full project payback within 12 months

05

Eligible for White Certificate (HEM) sale in EKR system

Key lesson

WWTP automation delivers the largest savings in energy, chemicals, and human resources. Automation development is a fast-payback investment. Modern control systems and proper instrumentation significantly reduce operating costs. On-site expert optimization is key to maximum efficiency. Energy efficiency program participation can provide additional financial benefits.

Have a similar challenge?

Our engineering team has worked across industrial, municipal, food and beverage, and utility sectors. Let's discuss how the same approach could work for your operation.