Energy Benchmarking in New Projects and/or Retrofit of Water and Sewage Treatment Plants

Objective: The objective of this study is to provide sanitation service providers with a performance indicator called specific electricity consumption (CEEE) (kWh/m³) for water treatment plants (WTP) and sewage treatment plants (STP), obtained in selected countries, which may serve as “typical” benchmarking in new projects and retrofits in the expected universalization of basic sanitation services in Brazil. Theoretical Framework: This study was prepared based on a systematic literature review on the CEEE indicator in WTPs and STPs. Method: The methodological approach for benchmarking mapping uses keywords with searches in electronic systems, such as WebofScience, CAPES, Scielo, manuals, research reports, and recommendations for best practices from the Water Environment Research Foundation. Results and Discussion: In the Energy Efficiency Program for Distribution Companies (PEE) (ANEEL, 2019), service providers in the sanitation sector can claim the funds available from the electricity distributor, demonstrating the cost-benefit relationship and Measurement and Verification (M&V), requiring ex-ante and ex-post measurements of energy efficiency actions that determine the CEEE. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this study are an important theme and may contribute to the universalization of sanitation services in municipalities in Brazil. Originality/Value: The study contributes to efficiency actions in ETAs and ETEs by proposing indicators in the form of benchmarking, contributing to the preservation of natural resources, reducing pollution, and consequently, bringing economic, financial and social returns to society.