Reclamation of Power in Wastewater Treatment Facilities

This project explored the feasibility of implementing hydroelectric turbine systems in wastewater treatment facilities in Massachusetts. An inventory of treatment plant information was obtained, and the Upper Blackstone Water Pollution Abatement District in Millbury, MA was selected for a case study analysis. Based on flow and head data, 19.9 kW of power could be produced, generating 1.1% of the facility\u27s electricity needs; however, the available head was slightly below the turbine specifications. Payback periods were calculated to determine hydropower feasibility for other Massachusetts plants, and 30.9% were potentially feasible based on flow but depending on head