Head-to-Head GHG Measurement Comparisons: Evaluating Plant-wide and Process-specific Quantification Methods

Many utilities currently report their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions solely using available calculational methodologies from protocols. There is a great need to gather actual emissions data to inform and improve existing calculation methods, as well as to develop recommended methods for gathering such data, because no standard measurement protocols currently exist.

This project will result in guidance to the water sector for standardized measurements and best-in-class inventory accuracy. Inclusion of ICLEI, a commonly used GHG protocol for our industry, allows further outreach and leveraging of project findings. The field monitoring techniques and measured data will support the creation of site-specific GHG emissions inventories while providing guidance as to when, where, and how specific methods should be used at water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) and also broadly applicable for utilities and municipalities.

Research Partners: South Platte Renew (CO), King County (WA), and Trinity River Authority (TX).