City of Bloomington, IN | Climate Action Dashboard
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One of the biggest sources of energy consumption in Bloomington is the electricity used to treat wastewater and transport clean water around the City.
The treatment of wastewater is inherently energy-intensive, involving aeration, pumping, and the operation of equipment for various stages of purification. This process is essential for breaking down organic matter, necessitating significant power input and making wastewater facilities some of the largest consumers of electricity in urban areas. The high energy consumption contributes directly to increased greenhouse gas emissions, especially when the energy is sourced from fossil fuels.
The transportation of water, including both fresh and wastewater, adds another layer of energy demand. Moving water over long distances and elevations requires considerable power, mainly due to the need for pumping systems that operate continuously.
The City of Bloomington has initiated efforts to reduce energy usage in wastewater treatment through the Waste and Energy Task Force. This initiative, spearheaded by Mayor Hamilton, aims to incorporate an anaerobic digestion process at the Dillman Road Wastewater Treatment Plant, which is the largest facility in the area. This process is designed to convert compostable waste into compressed natural gas (CNG), a cleaner fuel alternative. This not only prevents methane, a potent greenhouse gas, from being released into the atmosphere but also provides a renewable energy source that could be used to power the City's municipal fleet, therefore reducing the City's reliance on less sustainable energy sources.
Check out this video about the City's anaerobic digestor project here.
Goal W 3. Reduce energy use associated with treating and transporting water and wastewater by 10% of 2018 values.
Metrics
Total energy consumption from water/wastewater treatment
In the year of 2023
Cost Savings
By reducing the energy required for wastewater treatment, municipalities can significantly lower their utility bills, leading to considerable cost savings over time. These savings can then be redirected to other community services or initiatives.
Public Infrastructure
Conserving energy in wastewater treatment lessens the strain on public infrastructure, potentially reducing the frequency of upgrades and maintenance required for energy systems. This conservation also extends the lifespan of existing equipment, enabling more sustainable infrastructure development.
| Action | ||
|---|---|---|
 | Reduce energy usage from treating and transporting water and wastewater | |
 | Improve water quality for Bloomington residents | |
 | Promote public awareness for water conservation |
