Potential Analysis of On‐Site Oxygen and Ozone Production for Wastewater Treatment Plants

ABSTRACT Large wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) must reduce the concentration of micropollutants in their effluent until 2045, for example, via ozonation. The resulting oxygen demand can be covered by an on‐site water electrolyzer, making WWTPs a promising location for sector coupling. Some case studies demonstrated the principal applicability of this process. Within this contribution, however, the overall potential for WWTPs in Germany and the valorization of both product gases are considered, focusing on the coverage of the annual ozone demand with oxygen. An economic and ecological analysis of the process is conducted depending on the used energy source. Compared to conventional production routes of both gases, this analysis reveals economic and ecological feasibility when renewable energy is used.