If you are a water utility dealing with aging centralized pipes and high energy costs — this project developed a modular plug-and-play system that enables local, site-specific treatment. It reduces the load on main networks and lowers energy consumption.
Modular Algae-Based Wastewater Treatment Systems for Decentralized Urban Water Management
Imagine a smart, compact filter that uses a team of tiny algae and bacteria to clean dirty water. It works like a plug-and-play appliance for a neighborhood, turning waste into clean water and useful biomass. A digital twin acts like a remote control, predicting how the system performs in different weather conditions.
What needed solving
Centralized water systems are often inefficient, energy-heavy, and unable to handle local wastewater needs flexibly. There is a lack of compact, automated tools that can treat water on-site while recovering nutrients.
What was built
A modular hybrid microalgae-membrane photobioreactor and a digital twin model with predictive analytics and a Decision Support System.
Who needs this
Who can put this to work
If you are a developer building eco-districts dealing with strict wastewater regulations — this project developed a compact hybrid photobioreactor that fits into decentralized systems. It allows for on-site water recovery and nutrient recycling for landscaping.
If you are a plant operator dealing with diverse wastewater streams and high disposal fees — this project developed a membrane photobioreactor that produces high-quality effluent. The resulting biomass can be valorized for energy recovery to lower operational costs.
Quick answers
What is the cost or price of the system?
Based on available project data, specific pricing or cost figures are not provided.
Can this be scaled to an industrial level?
The system is designed as a modular plug-and-play solution for decentralized management, with testing planned across three different climate zones to ensure robustness.
How is the IP and licensing handled?
Based on available project data, there is no specific information regarding the licensing model or patent strategy.
How does it integrate with existing city infrastructure?
The system is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing centralized water networks, allowing for local treatment without replacing the entire grid.
What is the timeline for deployment?
The project period runs from 2025-06-01 to 2029-05-31, suggesting the technology will be refined and demonstrated during this window.
Who built it
The consortium is well-balanced for commercialization, featuring 14 partners from 9 countries. With an industry ratio of 29% (including 4 industrial partners and 3 SMEs), there is a strong bridge between the 6 universities and the market, ensuring the technical development is aligned with industrial needs.
Contact DIETHNES PANEPISTIMIO ELLADOS in Greece
Talk to the team behind this work.
Contact us to track the development of this modular water system for your infrastructure portfolio.