New tech turns wastewater into renewable energy

Handling what goes into a beer is just as important as handling what goes out. To that end, Pasteurization Technology Group (PTG) has produced a wastewater treatment, disinfection process that creates renewable energy.

Ventura with PTG Sign - Wastwater Treatment — PTG’s systems feature its patented “two-for-one” technology that combines eco-friendly wastewater disinfection with the generation of renewable energy. PTG’s process is one of only a handful of technologies to pass the stringent standards of Title 22 in the state of California for the disinfection of water for reuse.

PTG’s integrated systems can use available waste by-products (such as biogas) or natural gas to power a turbine or engine that generates electricity. The turbine’s hot exhaust air, which is typically wasted, passes through a waste-heat recovery unit that increases the temperature of wastewater to disinfect it. PTG’s software efficiently optimizes the energy and water flow throughout the integrated system.

“Craft brewers are experiencing rapid growth but also face increasing challenges from rising energy and water costs,” said Greg Ryan, chief executive officer and co-founder of PTG. “Breweries are increasingly turning to PTG’s sustainable technology to generate onsite energy while solving their wastewater problems. Our technology offers energy independence for breweries while providing a superior wastewater solution.”

PTG’s eco-friendly system can reduce electricity and heating costs in breweries by more than 50 percent. The company’s combined heat and power (CHP) systems also solve wastewater problems and eliminate sewer charges.

In addition, this technology enables water to be recycled in order to reduce fresh water costs. PTG’s technology is sustainable and non-toxic and requires no chemicals. The systems are easy to integrate into existing brewing processes.

For those California brewers interested in learning more, PTG is a Double Hopped Sponsor of the California Craft Brewers Association’s Annual General Meeting. The event will be held on Oct. 29 at the University of California Davis Conference Center in Davis, Calif. PTG will introduce craft brewery owners, brewers and industry executives, as well as UC Davis Food Science & Technology students, to its breakthrough wastewater disinfection technology that is optimized for the craft brewing industry.

If you missed it, be sure to check out our Better Know a Beer Guild Q&A with California Craft Brewers Association Executive Director Tom McCormick.