Powergy Clean Power System Saves Energy and Equipment
Energy costs are typically the second most expensive item in the average water treatment facility's operating budget, and these costs are expected to increase dramatically in the next 20 years. Because of expected revisions to the Clean Water Act and application of new technology, energy use could increase by as much as 40 percent.
Powergy Inc., a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of power conditioning devices, has introduced a new line of power conditioners designed to help combat rising electricity costs. Designed to improve power factor, protect against surges and spikes, and provide noise filtration, the Powergy Clean Power System adapts capabilities previously available to large commercial and industrial facilities for smaller users. Used with common water treatment equipment, such as pumps and lift stations, the Powergy Clean Power System will reduce kW demand, increase energy efficiency and prolong equipment life.
After extensive testing by an independent research facility, the Powergy Clean Power System was found to improve power system problems associated with the operation of induction machines.
Metcalf & Eddy Cuts Costs and Saves Equipment with Powergy
In November 1997, project manager at Metcalf & Eddy Services, a leader in providing environmental treatment services to clients specializing in the fields of water, wastewater, solid and hazardous waste, and air quality services, purchased 480-Volt Powergy Clean Power Systems for the Baird McGuire Superfund Site in Holbrook, Massachusetts. The project had been plagued with a low power factor and surge and spike problems that had been causing equipment blowouts. Powergy provided a perfect solution to improving their power quality and providing protection form surges and spikes.
"Because we're at the end of the power line, we were having many variances with major power surges almost daily. We've had significant equipment damage over the past three years due to spikes, "said Rob Bacher, the Project Manager for Metcalf & Eddy Services at the site. "Since we've installed the Powergy systems more than two months ago, we've had no problems."
Mr. Bacher estimates that Metcalf & Eddy Services saved more than $500 in electricity costs alone in the first month. Given that rate, the Clean Power System Units will pay for themselves in less than one year. In addition, Powergy brings added savings to Metcalf & Eddy Services' client, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, by protecting their equipment. If the Powergy Clean Power System prevents even one motor from blowing out, the payback period will be significantly less.
Powergy Clean Power Systems also protect the environment. By reducing kW demand, Powergy units reduce the volume of fossil fuels used, leading to a reduction in atmospheric emissions. A typical Clean Power System unit saves approximately 17,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually, preventing the emission of 165 pounds of sulfur dioxide, 89 pounds of nitrogen oxides and 12.87 tons of carbon dioxide. Figures from the Canadian Tree Institute show that it takes 100 trees to absorb the same amount of carbon dioxide emissions prevented by one Powergy power conditioner. "The reductions in atmospheric pollutants that Powergy units achieve are especially relevant since recent leading studies show that more than 70 percent of American consumers prefer goods and services with environmental benefits, " says Robert Joyce, Powergy's vice president of marketing.
Metcalf & Eddy (M&E) is a member of the Air & Water Technologies family of environmental companies. M&E's sister companies are Professional Services Group, the national leader in contract operations services for environmental treatment facilities, and Research-Cottrell, a worldwide leader in air pollution control equipment.
Powergy offers ten models of Clean Power System for various applications. The company is headquartered in East Providence, Rhode Island. Visit Powergy Clean Power Systems web site at http://www.powergy.com for additional information about the Powergy line of power conditioners.