
The race to net zero for water utilities
How can water utilities meet the challenge of fewer emissions as the race to net zero picks up speed? It is a topical subject, especially in light of major international gatherings like COP27, which have increased focus on the water sector’s decarbonization.
In a recent study from Xylem titled Net Zero: The Race We All Win, we address this topic.
It describes the doable steps utilities can take to quickly reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maximising services for their communities.
Why should net zero be a priority for the water sector?
The effects of climate change are felt by everyone. According to a report from the World Meteorological Organization, temperatures in Europe have grown in the past 30 years at a rate that is more than double the global average, causing droughts, heat waves, and wildfires.
Water scarcity is one effect of the crisis.Recent historic flooding has wreaked havoc in Pakistan, China, and Europe.
These concerns not only create a compelling rationale for updating our water systems and making our industry more effective and robust, but they also have an impact on the prosperity of communities and businesses.
While water utilities are at the forefront of addressing the effects of climate change, we must not overlook the energy-intensive nature of water systems.
Similar to the shipping sector, water and wastewater infrastructure accounts for around 2% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
This connection—often referred to as the “water-energy nexus”—can repower Europe while significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions if its full potential is realised.
What should we do about it now? The book Net Zero: The Race We All Win highlights practical methods that utilities can employ to quickly and economically reduce emissions.
We are reminded by the case studies in the study that a quantum leap in technology is not necessary.
A large portion of what we need currently exists in order to manage water more effectively and achieve the “sweet spot” of both increasing our resilience and reducing our emissions.
Global Water Intelligence estimated that more than 80 water and wastewater utilities had specific net-zero and climate neutrality goals as of April 2022. 26 of them have signed up for the UN Race to Zero.
Many other utilities collaborate closely with their local governments and communities to meet their net-zero goals. Work has therefore already begun, but time is also of the essence.
What can the sector do to move faster?
Water should take the lead and demonstrate what is possible through technology and data-driven decision-making as businesses consider how to decarbonize successfully.
For other industries wanting to ramp up the pace in the drive to net zero, the sector can serve as a potent example.
Prioritizing emissions reduction does not necessitate a significant change in the way utilities operate.
According to earlier study, existing technology, such as intelligent wastewater pumping systems, adaptive mixers with variable speed motors, and real-time decision support systems, can reduce around half of the energy-related emissions from the wastewater sector.
The fact that nearly 95% of this influence may be achieved for free or at a net loss was another startling discovery.
We have introduced the usage of digital technology, such as digital twins, in conjunction with our clients to help improve processes, leading to notable reductions in energy use.
In one instance, a European utility decreased the amount of energy used for aeration by 30%. The report also examines other novel strategies, such as remote, real-time monitoring, intelligent pump stations, and waste-to-energy generation.
How can utilities reach net zero while continuing to serve communities?
The reality is that this goal might be overshadowed by other issues including ageing networks, diminishing fresh water supplies, shifting rules, and tightening budgets, even if climate factors ought to become a prominent factor in decision-making.
We are confronted with a confluence of escalating infrastructure issues and climate pressure, and utilities need assistance — the burden cannot fall solely on them.
Politicians, regulators, financial partners, and technological partners, as part of the larger ecosystem of stakeholders, must assist in removing barriers and promoting rapid adoption.
Although the concept of net zero may seem intimidating, we offer the resources needed to get started.
Source:Xylem Inc