Energy generation processes require excessive amounts of water. The African continent needs to adequately plan water shortages into their energy planning models to ensure more sustainable energy planning, design and implementation to avoid water quality deterioration and environmental pollution.
Did you know that a 60-watt lightbulb burning for 12 hours consumes approximately 60 liters of water?
In the oil and gas industry, water is produced and used to drill and hydraulically fracture (“frack”) wells, refine and process oil and gas, as well as to produce electricity in selected natural gas power plants. Additionally, water is also used for drilling to lubricate and cool equipment, clean mud and rock debris derived from the drilling process.
In the coal mining process, water is required for coal washing, extraction, dust control and evaporation – Approximately 431 litres of water are used per ton of coal produced. According to a study by Finland’s LUT University, solar PV consumes between 2% and 15% of the water that coal and nuclear power plants.
Water used during the production of oil, gas and nuclear is usually sourced from local groundwater, rivers, or lakes. Where fresh water is in high demand for other uses, water reuse and alternative water sources, like. brackish water is alternative options.
According to the Nuclear Energy Institute a nuclear power reactor consumes between 1,514 and 2,725 litres of water per megawatt-hour. This in comparison to coal, ranging from 1,220 to 2,270 litres per MWh, and 700 to 1,200 litres per MWh for natural gas.
MEB Energy has to capacity to ensure your water is of prime quality, whether for your power plant or community. We will assist you with your energy modelling and implement a sound solution, designed to support future growth.
