Toronto’s Wastewater Energy Project: Turning Sewage into Sustainable Heat
Toronto is getting creative in its push to cut carbon emissions and meet energy needs.
As reported by CBC News on March 7, 2024, one such initiative already underway is using heat from sewage pipes to sustainably heat buildings.
The Untapped Potential of Sewage Heat
Beneath Toronto’s streets lies an untapped, carbon-free source of energy: wastewater. Sewage pipes not only transport wastewater but also carry significant amounts of “waste” heat from buildings, including warm water from showers, dishwashers, and other household activities.
The potential of this resource is evident. For instance, in one part of Toronto, while the outside temperature was 0°C, the water in nearby sewage pipes measured a balmy 17°C. Instead of letting this heat go to waste, experts have come up with the idea to harness and repurpose it to heat buildings.
A Groundbreaking Project at Toronto Western Hospital
One of the most ambitious projects in this space is already underway at Toronto Western Hospital.
Noventa Energy Partners, a local company specializing in sustainable energy solutions, is constructing a massive borehole—165 feet deep and 35 feet wide. This pit will tap into a large sewer pipe to extract heat from wastewater.
Using a non-contact thermal energy exchange system, wastewater will flow into heat exchangers, transferring its heat to clean water. Heat pumps will then extract this energy to heat the hospital. The system will also be used for cooling, effectively reducing the hospital’s reliance on natural gas by an estimated 90%. This translates to cutting approximately 8,400 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
Proven Technology, Expanding Horizons
The technology behind this project isn’t new. Similar wastewater heat recovery systems have been operational in Vancouver for over a decade. However, Toronto’s project is among the largest of its kind in the city and the province, showcasing the growing adoption of sustainable energy solutions.
Heat pumps play a crucial role in this process, operating on the same principle as other types by extracting heat from various sources, such as air, ground, water, or wastewater, as seen in this scenario. In this case, the system at Toronto Western Hospital is expected to meet 90% of its heating and cooling needs through sewage heat recovery.
A Model for Future Sustainability
This initiative demonstrates how cities can turn everyday “waste” into valuable resources. With projects like this, Toronto is setting an example for urban centers worldwide, proving that innovative, sustainable energy solutions are within reach.
By tapping into wastewater heat, Toronto not only reduces its carbon footprint but also makes significant strides toward energy independence.
It’s a bold step toward a greener, more sustainable future.
