Case Study 2

STP Restoration and Digital Transformation by Genex Utility

Project Type : STP Rehabilitation + Real-time Monitoring + Automation
Capacity        : 100 KLD
Technology  : Membrane Bioreactor (MBR)
Status            : Fully Completed and Operational

Background

The hospital generates significant daily wastewater, managed by its dedicated 100 KLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) employing Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology. Initially efficient, the plant’s performance deteriorated significantly due to equipment aging, poor maintenance practices, and outdated operational protocols. Consequently, The Hospital faced substantial compliance and operational risks.

To rectify these issues and ensure sustainability, The Hospital engaged Genex Utility Management Pvt. Ltd., known for expertise in wastewater treatment, digital integration, and utility automation.

Initial Challenges

1. Diminished Treatment Efficiency

  • The STP was performing at only 55% of its designed capacity, severely affecting wastewater treatment efficiency.
  • Reduced microbial activity due to inadequate aeration and frequent membrane fouling.

2. Poor Water Quality

  • Treated water consistently appeared turbid, failing to meet required standards for reuse or safe discharge.
  • The existing membrane system was aged and compromised by fouling, drastically reducing filtration effectiveness.

3. Operational Instability

  • Frequent membrane fouling necessitated constant chemical cleaning, disrupting operational continuity and increasing downtime.
  • Heavy reliance on manual intervention increased operational costs and reduced reliability.

Strategic Intervention by Genex Utility

Genex Utility undertook comprehensive physical restoration paired with digital and automated operational upgrades, implementing:

Mechanical and Structural Rehabilitation

  • Replacement of obsolete Koch hollow fiber membranes with state-of-the-art membranes ensuring higher filtration efficiency and durability.
  • Optimization and recalibration of blowers, diffusers, and pumps, significantly enhancing aeration and biological treatment performance.
  • Introduction of optimized sludge management protocols maintaining ideal Mixed Liquor Suspended Solids (MLSS) concentrations for maximum microbial efficacy.

Digital Transformation (Currently Live)

Real-Time Monitoring : Integrated advanced IoT sensors (COD, BOD, pH, turbidity, ammonia), enabling continuous data acquisition and live dashboard visualization.
Automation : Full automation including chemical dosing, blower operation cycles, and automated membrane cleaning cycles based on real-time performance data.
Remote Operation : Implementation of IoT-based control and remote monitoring infrastructure, connecting the plant directly to Genex Utility’s central monitoring facility for immediate response and reduced operational risks.

Quantified Impact and Benefits

Outcome: A Digitally Enabled and Sustainable STP

Post-intervention, The Hospital STP has transformed into a cutting-edge, digitally managed wastewater treatment facility with:

  • Enhanced Operational Efficiency: Achieved 100% of design treatment capacity with significantly improved uptime.
  • Superior Quality Output: Treated water now meets high standards suitable for reuse, aligning with sustainability goals.
  • Reduced Operational Costs: Minimized manual interventions, chemical use, and energy consumption due to optimized processes.
  • ESG Compliance and Audit-Readiness: Continuous monitoring ensures stringent environmental and regulatory compliance.
  • Future-ready Operations: Integration with smart hospital initiatives supports broader sustainability and operational goals.