This project is designed to develop alternative energy sources to power water supply and wastewater systems in Delaware. Over 30% of the costs to operate water and wastewater systems are due to energy needs such as pumping. Over 50% of the costs to run water and wastewater treatment plants are de to energy demands. Low head hydroelectric, solar, and wind energy is available to power water and wastewater systems operated by the City of Newark, City of Wilmington and New Castle County. Treatment plants are situated along waterways, thus low head hydro and wind power are enticing. These plants have large flat, unshaded surface area, thus solar has a high potential. Energy savings realized by alternative energy can be passed along to the customers (the public).
