Barwon Water's Colac Water Reclamation Plant (WRP) in Victoria is undergoing a transformative project aimed at achieving grid independence and enhancing sustainable energy efficiency. Conducted in two stages, this initiative is significantly bolstering the plant's energy sustainability and environmental impact.

Stage 1
In the initial phase, the Colac WRP was equipped with a 2G agenitor 408 CHP unit, housed in a 9m x 3m x 3m container, and a 2G Gas Treatment System with cooling, reheating, and activated carbon capabilities. By harnessing high-strength organic waste from nearby Australian Lamb Company and Bulla Dairy Foods, the plant was able to generate substantial energy, enough to power over 1000 homes. This not only allowed the Colac WRP to operate off the grid but also to supply excess power back to the grid, contributing to Victoria’s renewable energy capacity. The project also included sharing the generated hot water with the Australian Lamb Company, exemplifying a circular approach to resource utilization.

This stage brought several environmental benefits, including reducing landfill waste, driving down energy prices, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. It aligned with the Victorian Government's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, marking a significant step in Barwon Water's commitment to climate change adaptation and long-term sustainable energy solutions.

Stage 2
The ongoing second stage of the project at the Colac Water Reclamation Plant includes the installation of an additional 2G avus 500 plus Biogas CHP unit, complemented by comprehensive upstream and downstream gas treatment facilities. This stage is tailored to meet the increasing power demands of the site. A central feature of this phase is the integration of a TS biological scrubber, which is currently being implemented to significantly improve the quality of biogas fed into the engines, aiming to reduce H2S levels from 3500ppm to less than 150ppm.

In parallel, the installation of a C-Nox high-temperature flare is underway to ensure any excess biogas is safely flared off, contributing to further reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and adhering to environmental safety standards. Once completed, this upgrade will not only enhance the plant’s energy efficiency but also augment its role in renewable energy production and regional emission reduction efforts.

The Colac Water Reclamation Plant project, led by Evo Energy Technologies, is evolving as a model of innovative sustainable energy practices. It demonstrates the transformative potential of advanced technology in converting waste into valuable energy resources, offering significant benefits to both the environment and the community.