Renewable Energy Generation and GHG Emission Reduction Potential of a Satellite Water Reuse Plant by Using Solar Photovoltaics and Anaerobic Digestion

Wastewater treatment is a very energy-intensive process. The growing population, increased demands for energy and water, rising pollution levels caused by fossil-fuel-based generation, warrants the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. This research explored consumption offset of satellite water reuse plant (WRP) using solar photovoltaics (PVs) anaerobic digestion. analysis was performed two types WRPs: conventional (conventional activated sludge system (CAS) bioreactor with secondary clarifiers dual media filtration) advanced (bioreactor membrane filtration (MBR)) WRPs. associated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions were also evaluated. For treatment, it found that 28% 31.1% WRP’s total 14.7% 5.9% could be generated digestion PVs, respectively. When both energy-generating units are incorporated in WRPs, MBR WRPs on average 1.86 times more intensive than CAS translating cost savings electricity $7.4/1000 m3 $13.3/1000 treated, at facilities, Further, PVs require 30% longer pay back compared GHG emissions, without incorporating generating 1.9 2.9 units. study successfully showed addition reduced carbon WRP.