Weltec Biopower has developed an optimized anaerobic sludge to treat wastewater to create methane from sewage gas.

After preliminary treatment of wastewater to remove pollutants, anaerobic sludge fermentation is used by the plant to generate power for its own consumption. Plants can cut their energy costs by up to a quarter, according to Weltec, along with the heat produced by the cogeneration unit used to heat buildings and accelerate fermentation process.

The fermentation also reduces the amount of sludge, which ultimately results in lower disposal costs. The reduction helps avoid greenhouse gas emissions that diffuse into the atmosphere during aerobic sludge stabilization, Weltec says.

A suitable anaerobic unit is required for sludge stabilization consistent with the sludge properties. This unit must be equipped with a special roof for intermediate storage of the fermentation gas as an energy source for the cogeneration supply.