Innovative digital solution to reduce energy use and optimize operations in wastewater plants

ABB launches ABB Ability™ Smart Solution for Wastewater, a digital solution which addresses the un-precedented challenge faced by wastewater treatment plant operators to achieve both the lowest energy use, and the highest operational standards. 

The innovative solution is composed of two main pillars, advanced process control (APC) and digital twin and simulation technology to forecast future operational needs. It will help wastewater treatment plants reach optimal operating conditions by reducing process variability and stabilizing operations through continuous monitoring and automation. This enables constant, incremental operational adjustments and gains, reducing energy consumption and chemical usage, alongside increasing profitability. 

According to the International Energy Agency, global electricity consumption in wastewater treatment reached 222 TWh in 2020, with electricity usage across the sector predicted to increase by 80 percent by 2040. This is in part due to the increasing demand for treated wastewater, which is now considered a valuable potential resource.

Marco Achilea, Global Segment Manager, Water & Infrastructure, ABB Energy Industries, said: “This new product leverages our long-standing expertise in advanced process control, performance optimization and digital twin technology. With the demand for treated wastewater rapidly growing around the world, our goal is to continue to develop sustainable solutions that reduce energy use whilst improving water quality and operational efficiency.” 

Developed with hydraulic modelling intelligence from the Danish water environment specialists, DHI Group, the ABB Ability™ Smart Solution for Wastewater creates a more stable treatment process by predicting wastewater inflow together with environmental factors such as weather patterns, reducing risk of overflow and fines.  ABB Ability™ Smart Solution for Wastewater will be the first in a family of smart solutions for the water industry. Building on the experience and solid performances of ABB’s Optimax® and APC, this first offering is designed to make wastewater treatment plants safer, smarter, and more sustainable.