Water Services Innovation Fund Projects - In Progress
Enhancing Existing Wastewater Treatment Plants Through Aerobic Granular Sludge (AGS) Addition
This project seeks to validate whether Aerobic Granular Sludge (AGS) grown within dedicated Uisce Éireann AGS Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) can be used in non-AGS WWTPs to improve treatment performance.
Completed end of 2024, close out report is due in 2025.
Alluvial aquifers as a potential water source and treatment technology
The aim of this project is to generate a state-of-the-art literature review and conceptual model of Irish alluvial deposits, pulling together the findings of published studies with the contents of the database to establish conceptual models of the hydrogeology of Irish alluvial and associated glaciofluvial deposits. The second stage of the project will seek to explore borehole drilling that will align with the Supply Demand Balance programme and capacity related projects.
Estimated completion – Mid 2026.
Kaumera
Investigate the Kaumera production and applications opportunity to generate valuable by-product from wastewater sludge. This project is currently on hold as Uisce Éireann is investigating wider circular economy priorities and approach.
Development of pilot Sludge Treatment Reed Beds (STRBs) for use in treating & dewatering water sludge containing Aluminium Sulphate
This project was created to establish the concept of STRBs to dewater alum sludges providing a low-cost sustainable solution. It sought to develop an understanding of the physical and chemical properties of processed sludge and investigate potential Circular Economy opportunities for this product.
Estimated completion – Mid 2025.
Verification of the novel semi-quantitative cryptosporidium source risk assessment
This project will seek to identify catchment-based risk profiles that will inform source protection measures. A desired outcome of the project would be to determine the most appropriate level of treatment required for Cryptosporidium removal / inactivation at an individual site level, avoiding investing in treatment for low-risk supplies and thereby informing environmentally sustainable future investment cycles.
Estimated completion – Mid 2025.
Nature Based Solutions Research and Innovation Programme
This project has been approved for CRU WSIF funding and will be undertaken by Uisce Éireann, in partnership with University of Galway. The project will look to further develop opportunities to employ Nature Based Solutions (NBS), having regard to advantages over conventional mechanical wastewater treatment systems. Current knowledge and practice limit the opportunities for NBS deployment for wastewater treatment due to the approach taken to settling Emission Limit Values (ELVs) based on effluent concentration limits and also as there is currently a limited application of NBS solutions for wastewater treatment in Ireland.
Estimated completion – End of 2026.
Phosphorus removal and carbon sequestration - Cranfield University Study - Phase 2
This project will establish the design envelope for surface treatment wetlands targeting phosphorus removal and delivery of the compatible co-benefit of carbon sequestration, as well as provide recommendations for their design, operation, and maintenance.
Uisce Éireann has partnered with Cranfield University and various UK water/wastewater utilities & regulator (Thames Water, Anglian Water, Welsh Water, Yorkshire Water, Northumbrian Water, United Utilities, UK Environment Agency (EA)) to deliver this project.
Estimated completion – End 2026.