Image shows the first components of the GAS-TESS arriving at SA Water’s Glenelg Wastewater Treatment Plant.
The commissioning of the first commercial pilot of a molten silicon energy storage system is moving forward, with components of the technology on route to SA Water’s Glenelg Wastewater Treatment Plant.
1414 Degrees’ biogas Thermal Energy Storage System (GAS-TESS) will use world-leading technology to store energy generated from biogases created during wastewater treatment to increase the plant’s energy self-sufficiency.
The project is co-funded by 1414 Degrees and the South Australian Government’s Renewable Technology Fund, while a partnership with SA Water provides an environment to pilot the system’s ability to integrate energy storage and heat with industrial operations.
1414 Degrees’ original technology was developed with a focus on electrical input, such as solar or wind power.
In 2017 the company’s engineering team commenced development of an additional offering — the GAS-TESS — in response to a request from SA Water for technology that would allow a biogas input to store energy.
SA Water Chief Executive, Roch Cheroux, said it was exciting that local innovation was being facilitated in the essential service’s push for a zero cost energy future.
“Embracing innovative, world-leading technology and ways of thinking, is essential to reducing our electricity costs and maintaining low and stable pricing for our customers,” Mr Cheroux said.
“To date, we have used biogas produced by our wastewater treatment processing at Glenelg to generate electricity and cover up to 80 per cent of the plant’s needs.
“As well as realising the benefits of increased energy self-sufficiency, we can support South Australian innovation and, hopefully, lead a global charge to reduce the costs and environmental impacts of energy-intensive wastewater treatment operations.”
