Wessex Water, advanced digestion system
Winner 2008: Best Renewable Energy Scheme
In 2008, Wessex Water commissioned its first Acid Phase Digester (APD) at its Avonmouth sewage sludge processing plant. This is one of only a few such advanced plants operating in the UK. The plant, which treats around 33,000 tonnes of sewage sludge per annum, had previously processed sludge using mainly Mesophilic Anaerobic Digestion and by liming. The results of the new APD process and technology have been astounding; energy production has increased by around 65% from 14.3 GWh/annum to 23.6 GWh/annum, while at the same time, the CO2 emission rate of the plant has been reduced by over 75% and the amount of liming required has been reduced significantly. The residue treated sludge is high in valuable organic matter and nutrients and is recycled locally to agriculture.
Runners up
- CLP Wind Farm at Roskrow Barton
- Kernock biomass plant
Award Categories
Best Business Innovation
This award recognises the best new product, process or service that has been developed by a South West based company. View the winner
Most Proactive Local Authority
This award is designed to recognise the crucial role local authorities can play in supporting renewable energy, through policies and actions to support the growth of the sector and generating green heat or power on their own land and buildings. View the winner
Best Renewable Energy Scheme
An award for a South West renewable energy scheme that breaks new ground and delivers significant carbon savings, or promises them through its ability to be replicated. We are keen to receive nominations across all technologies. View the winner
Installer of the year
This award recognises the renewable energy installer that stands out as an exemplar to other installers in the south west. Over the past 12 months they should have increased the number of installations or megawatts that they’ve installed, explored new opportunities, carried out high-quality work, and be recognised by customers for their high level of service. View the winner
Best Housing Scheme
An award for a south west home or a housing development which generates its own renewable energy in an innovative way and minimises its carbon footprint. View the winner
