Simulation-based analysis of full-scale implementation of energy neutral wastewater treatment plants

Achieving an energy-positive operation is critical to meet the sustainability paradigm for wastewater management. While there interest in developing energy positive schemes, a comprehensive analysis on full-scale implementation of such schemes lacking. We used advanced simulation techniques evaluate low-energy treatment scheme capable increasing resource recovery, while simultaneously meeting typical effluent limits (total N [TN] ≤ 3 mg/L; total P [TP] 1 mg/L). Major components include anaerobic membrane bioreactors (BOD/TSS removal), polymeric anion exchangers (P removal) and mainstream anammox process (N removal). Simulation results indicate potential reduction net requirement by about 0.46 kW h/m3 (∼ 94 %) compared conventional activated sludge system. Energy recovery through biogas combustion (0.29 h/m3) was 90 % required treatment. Sludge production reduced 49 using configurations, 55 influent COD recovered as biogas. Sensitivity indicated that dominant parameters controlling consumption temperature, COD, electric efficiency combined heat power (CHP) engine. Determination solution space self-sufficiency proposed could reach break-even point at 544 mg/L 38 CHP Our helped identify challenges determination operational strategies overcome these challenges. believe our simulation-based provides platform utilities can apply make decisions achieve sustainable