Smoke-Stacks

Renewable Energy: Factory Chimneys Provide Valuable Water Source

July 18, 2011

Water shortages may become a problem of the past.

Water shortages may become a problem of the past.

A collaborative 10-year study by energy services firm KEMA, the European Membrane Institute at the University of Twente and several Dutch companies revealed that so much high-grade water can be recovered from flue gases of factory chimneys, as a result of a strongly improved membrane technology, that industrial plants in arid areas can make a valuable contribution to the world's water shortage.

Tests in industrial plants in the Netherlands and Germany have demonstrated that at least 40% of the water in the flue gases can be recovered with the new membrane technology. With this recovery rate, an average power plant can supply twice as much water as it uses.

The amount of water saved from a 400 megawatt power plant, is equivalent to the water usage of 3,500 Western households. The study also found the water produced was safe for both industrial use and consumption. In addition, energy can be saved in this industrial process reducing costs as well as CO2-emissions.

14 partners from Europe, the Middle East and Africa are currently working together on follow-up research.

Consol Energy Clean Water Act Violations

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Buildings, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Building Better Schools

Download this digital resource to better understand the challenges and opportunities in designing and operating educational facilities for safety, sustainability, and performance...

Tips to Keep Facility Management on Track

How do you plan to fill the knowledge gap as seasoned facility managers retire or leave for new opportunities? Learn about the latest strategies including FM tech innovations ...

The Beauty & Benefits of Biophilic Design in the Built Environment

Biophilic design is a hot trend in design, but what is it and how can building professionals incorporate these strategies for the benefits of occupants? This eHandbook offers ...

The Benefits of Migrating from Analog to DMR Two-Way Radios

Are you still using analog two-way radios? Download this white paper and discover the simple and cost-effective migration path to digital DMR radios that deliver improved audio...