St. Cloud NEWRF Energy Master Plan

Facing the dual challenges of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy efficiency, the City of St. Cloud, MN, sought innovative solutions for their Nutrient, Energy, and Water Recovery Facility (NEWRF). They received a $4 million DOE grant to host a groundbreaking demonstration project aimed at integrating a 1MW electrolyzer system at their facility. To achieve the project’s goals, the City contracted Carollo Engineers to assess the onsite production of green hydrogen and explore the beneficial reuse of waste heat and oxygen by-products.

Carollo conducted an analysis to evaluate the potential benefits of repurposing these by-products. The study revealed that utilizing the heat and oxygen produced during electrolysis could significantly reduce both direct and indirect GHG emissions. Carollo’s role extended to evaluating off-site markets and on-site uses for the generated hydrogen and oxygen, as well as assessing storage options and return on investment. This approach demonstrated the feasibility and advantages of transforming wastewater treatment facilities into hubs for green hydrogen production.

The successful implementation of this project not only positions St. Cloud as a leader in sustainable energy practices but also highlights the broader potential for wastewater treatment operations to contribute to decarbonization efforts. By producing green hydrogen and utilizing its by-products, the City of St. Cloud is setting a precedent for integrating renewable energy solutions in municipal infrastructure. This project paves the way for symbiotic financing relationships that can further accelerate the decarbonization of local, hard-to-electrify industrial sectors, showcasing a sustainable path forward for communities nationwide.