A new energy system at the Annacis Island Wastewater Treatment Plant is using biogas to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from plant operations. Known as “cogeneration”, this system will use all of the biogas generated at the plant to create heat and electricity, supplying all of the plant’s heating needs and half of its electricity needs.
Biogas is generated as part of the wastewater treatment process and will now be recovered as a fuel instead of being flared into the atmosphere. This will significantly reduce the plant’s greenhouse gas emissions, supporting Metro Vancouver’s commitment to protect public health and the environment.
The cogeneration system became fully operational in May and runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A new stand-by power system and diesel generators have been installed to provide a reliable source of backup electricity in case of a BC Hydro power outage. The generators will operate essential plant processes during a power outage, reducing treatment plant process interruptions and helping to protect the Fraser River.
The co-generation system is just one of the many upgrades currently taking place at the Annacis Island Wastewater Treatment Plant.
