#192: Oregon's Original Net Zero Hero

Water treatment facilities use tremendous amounts of energy, often responsible for up to 30 percent of a municipality's energy consumption and cost. There is a movement to make these water facilities net zero, meaning they produce as much energy as they consume. Oregon is home to one of the original net zero facilities in the U.S., as discussed in this episode with Jacob Corum, an engineer at the Gresham Wastewater Treatment Plant. During a tour of the plant, Jacob explains how it achieved net zero status, particularly by increasing production of biogas, optimizing processes for energy efficiency, and installing solar panels on the property. This episode is supported by Flume Utility & Business Solutions, which delivers comprehensive residential water data analytics to entities tasked with creating a sustainable water future. Learn more at flumewater.com waterloop is a nonprofit media outlet exploring solutions for sustainability and equity in water. Visit waterloop.org