Technologies for recovery of energy from wastewaters: Applicability and potential in South Africa
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17159/2413-3051/2013/v24i1a3003Abstract
This study explored technologies for recovering energy from wastewater through production of biomass, combustion and gasification, generation of biogas, production of bioethanol, heat recovery and microbial fuel cells. A first order desktop analysis of the potential for applying these solutions to wastewaters in South Africa revealed that 3 200 to 9 000 MWth of energy has potential for recovery, equating to at most 7% of South Africa’s current electrical power supply. Formal and informal animal husbandry, fruit and beverage industries and domestic blackwater were identified as wastewaters with the greatest potential for energy recovery. Of the reviewed technologies, anaerobic digestion shows applicability to the widest range of feedstocks. Net energy generated, reduction in pollution, and water reclamation are identified as the main benefits, but additional benefits such as certified emission reductions, fertiliser production and the production of secondary products may dictate the economic feasibility.Downloads
Download data is not yet available.
Downloads
Published
2013-02-01
Issue
Section
Articles
How to Cite
Technologies for recovery of energy from wastewaters: Applicability and potential in South Africa. (2013). Journal of Energy in Southern Africa, 24(1), 15-26. https://doi.org/10.17159/2413-3051/2013/v24i1a3003