19
The The Pipeline Published Quarterly by the Public Service Commission 201 Brooks Street, P.O. Box 812 Charleston, WV 25323 Web Address: http://www.psc.state.wv.us. Email: [email protected] Telephone: (304) 340-0440 Toll Free: (800) 344-5113 Fax: (304) 340-3759 Contributors Jeremy Wolfe, BRIM Kris Huff, PSC Tammy Tabor, PSC Conrad Bramlee, PSC Katheryn Emery, WVDEP Valerie Breznicky, USEPA The information contained in this publication is based on the current laws, rules, regulations, and policies of the PSC, DEP and DHHR and reflects the personal or professional opinions of the individual authors. Nothing contained in the publication should be construed as an adjudication on any specific factual situation or as a formal opinion of the PSC, DEP, or DHHR unless it is clearly cited as such. JulySeptember 2014 INSIDE THIS ISSUE Certificates Page 1-2 Thermal Expansion Page 3-5 Facts and Tips Page 5-6 Deferred Payments Page 6-9 WV CWSRF Page 10 Saving Communities Energy & Money Page 11-17 News and Views From WV Bureau for Public Health, WV Department of Environmental Protection, and the Public Service Commission of WV 1 CERTIFICATES OF INSURANCE By: Jeremy C. Wolfe, Loss Control Manager West Virginia Board of Risk & Insurance Management Every day organizations are challenged with numerous business/operational risks. How organizations control the risks that they are exposed to can greatly impact the effectiveness of their organization. Risks can be controlled through: rejection, transfer, sharing, retention, and reduction. The focus of this article is to explore the ability to control risk through ―risk transfer,” specifically through the principles involved in requiring and obtaining Certificates of Insurance. When an organization’s buildings, equipment, or property are used by an outside individual or group, the organization’s exposure to insurance loss is increased. Oftentimes insurance loss arising from these activities is generally outside of the control of an organization. While it may be reasonable to expect that an organization should not have any liability, unfortunately organizations are often held liable for losses arising from the acts of others, especially when those entities lack adequate resources to pay claims. Requiring Certificates of Insurance when entering into contractual agreements with outside parties/vendors, or when outside groups request to use an organization’s buildings, equipment, or property, can reduce an organization’s exposure to insurance loss. When a

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The

The Pipeline Published Quarterly by the

Public Service Commission

201 Brooks Street, P.O. Box 812

Charleston, WV 25323

Web Address: http://www.psc.state.wv.us.

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: (304) 340-0440

Toll Free: (800) 344-5113

Fax: (304) 340-3759

Contributors

Jeremy Wolfe, BRIM

Kris Huff, PSC

Tammy Tabor, PSC

Conrad Bramlee, PSC

Katheryn Emery, WVDEP

Valerie Breznicky, USEPA

The information contained in this publication is

based on the current laws, rules, regulations, and

policies of the PSC, DEP and DHHR and reflects

the personal or professional opinions of the

individual authors. Nothing contained in the

publication should be construed as an adjudication

on any specific factual situation or as a formal

opinion of the PSC, DEP, or DHHR unless it is

clearly cited as such.

July—September 2014

INSIDE

THIS

ISSUE

Certificates Page 1-2

Thermal Expansion Page 3-5

Facts and Tips Page 5-6

Deferred Payments Page 6-9

WV CWSRF Page 10

Saving Communities

Energy & Money

Page 11-17

News and Views From WV Bureau for Public Health, WV Department of

Environmental Protection , and the Public Service Commission of WV

1

CERTIFICATES OF INSURANCE

By: Jeremy C. Wolfe, Loss Control Manager

West Virginia Board of Risk & Insurance Management

Every day organizations are challenged with

numerous business/operational risks. How

organizations control the risks that they are exposed to

can greatly impact the effectiveness of their

organization. Risks can be controlled through:

rejection, transfer, sharing, retention, and reduction.

The focus of this article is to explore the ability to

control risk through ―risk transfer,” specifically

through the principles involved in requiring and

obtaining Certificates of Insurance.

When an organization’s buildings, equipment, or

property are used by an outside individual or group, the

organization’s exposure to insurance loss is

increased. Oftentimes insurance loss arising from these

activities is generally outside of the control of an

organization. While it may be reasonable to

expect that an organization should not have any

liability, unfortunately organizations are often held

liable for losses arising from the acts of others,

especially when those entities lack adequate

resources to pay claims.

Requiring Certificates of Insurance when entering into

contractual agreements with outside parties/vendors, or

when outside groups request to use an organization’s

buildings, equipment, or property, can reduce an

organization’s exposure to insurance loss. When a

contractor, vendor, lessee, volunteer, or outside party provides a Certificate of

Insurance, it shows that the entity has adequate insurance coverage for the losses that

may arise out of the activities that they may perform. It also provides evidence that

the outside party can satisfy obligations to pay losses, judgments or settlements.

During this process, it is important that an organization request to be listed as an

additional insured on the outside party’s insurance policy. Being named as an

―additional insured‖ on Certificates of Insurance allows for insurance coverage from

the other party’s insurance policy for claims and suits alleging negligent acts or

omissions of the other parties.

Typically, there is subjectivity involved in this process, or a business decision to be

made. Requests for use of buildings and equipment which would put an

organization at a high exposure for claims such as contractors doing construction

and large events involving the general public should require a Certificate of

Insurance being received. For small events such as class reunions, small meetings,

small dinners, et cetera, an organization should evaluate the risk involved with the

activity or function and make a decision of whether or not to require a Certificate of

Insurance.

Once a Certificate of Insurance is received, the certificate should be reviewed for:

Types of coverage

Limits of liability

Name of insurer(s)

Dates of coverage

Cancellation provisions

Additional insured

Permissive use of an organization’s buildings, equipment, and property by an outside

group or individual in some instances can be a valuable service for organizations to

provide to the public and can enrich the sense of community between an

organization and its neighbors. It can become a difficult balance for an organization

within a community, but ultimately the commitment of an organization to employ

―risk transfer‖ techniques will provide it with the best opportunity to control this

type of business risk.

2

3

Protecting Your Customers against Thermal Expansion

By: Kris Huff, Technical Analyst

Engineering Division

Public Service Commission

In the past few years, I have encountered several complaint cases which have likely

been caused by thermal expansion within a customer’s water line. Despite the

frequency of these cases, and the potential dangers and expenses attributed to

thermal expansion, few customers know about, or even understand, what thermal

expansion is. Therefore, when customers have abnormally high pressure within their

home or leaks caused by the effects of thermal expansion, they frequently blame the

utility for the high pressure problems. When confronted with complaints about high

pressure, water utilities staff frequently misdiagnose symptoms of thermal expansion

and make suggestions to the complainant which could have no effect, or even

compound the problems. Therefore, I have prepared this article to help the

personnel of water utilities diagnose the symptoms of thermal expansion, and to

better inform customers about the dangers and potential damages that can be caused

by thermal expansion.

Thermal expansion is, of course, caused when water is heated, which also increases

the volume of the water, while decreasing its density. Since water is incompressible,

this increase in the water’s volume creates a great deal of pressure as the water’s

expansion tries to go somewhere. If the water is in a closed system, for example a

system with a backflow preventer or check valve, the pressure will continue to build

up within a customer’s line, until usually it is released through the pop-off valve on

the hot water heater. However, if the pop-off valve has become damaged or

corroded then there is a chance that pipes, fittings or appliances will break before the

pressure can be relieved. This could create a costly leak for the customer,

particularly if they are not home at the time their pipes ruptured, and are now facing

both the cost of repairing any damages, as well as a large water bill. The customer

may then begin looking for a reason why his pipes ruptured, and check the pressure,

discovering it to be abnormally high, sometimes even higher than the maximum

pressure limit set by the Public Service Commission. With this discovery, they often

file an informal or formal complaint against their utility, since they now feel that it is

4

the utility’s fault that their pipes were damaged.

This all can be prevented, however, if the utility and their staff can recognize the

symptoms of thermal expansion and provide information to the customer to help

them prevent thermal expansion within their homes. One of the best ways to prevent

the damaging effects of thermal expansion is the expansion tank, which is a

relatively inexpensive device which absorbs the excess pressure from thermal

expansion. Many plumbing codes require them as the relief valve on the hot water

tank cannot always be counted on to function properly, and the warranties of hot

water tanks often require them to prevent voiding the warranty. Even tankless water

heaters can cause thermal expansion, although many contractors neglect installing

them without expansion tanks.

Secondly, it is important for the utility to inform their customers of the dangers of

thermal expansion, especially if the utility has recently had a project, or is planning a

project which replaces older water meters without check valves with water meters

with check valves. The older style meters without check valves did not create a

closed system, which meant that excess pressure could bleed back into the mainline.

Once a new meter with a check valve, or ironically, a pressure reducing valve, is

installed on the customer’s line, it creates a closed system and previously unnoticed

thermal expansion problems can occur.

Lastly, utilities should educate their employees on how to diagnose the symptoms of

thermal expansion if they are receiving complaints from their customers regarding

high pressures. Sometimes water utility workers will recommend a pressure

reducing valve, which could only compound the thermal expansion issues. If the

mainline pressures going to the customer’s service line are recorded to be within the

acceptable range, and the customer still reports high pressures within his line, it is

likely that the customer is suffering from complications involving thermal

expansion. One tale-tale piece of evidence of thermal expansion is when water is

expelled from the hot water heater’s relief valve and also faucets that drip. If the

relief valve and faucets frequently drip, and the customer does not have an

expansion tank, then the utility should recommend the customer purchase one to

prevent damages from thermal expansion. There are also other devices that can be

installed as well to alleviate thermal expansion problems. Most hardware stores

carry a variety of devices and can offer advice to the customer as to which one might

be best for them. However, if the utility fails to properly inform its customers and

employees about thermal expansion, the utility may be liable not only for lost

5

Industry-Apparel, Home Furnishings, Electronics, and Paper

According to recent reports, nearly 5% of all U.S. water withdrawals are

used to fuel industry and the production of many of the material goods we

stock up on weekly, monthly, and yearly.

It takes about 100 gallons of water to grow and process a single pound of

cotton, and the average American goes through about 35 pounds of new

cotton material each year. Do you really need that additional T-shirt?

One of the best ways to conserve water is to buy recycled goods, and to

recycle your stuff when you’re done with it. Or stick to buying only what

you really need.

The water required to create your laptop could wash nearly 70 loads of

laundry in a standard machine.

Recycling a pound of paper, less than the weight of your average

newspaper, saves about 3.5 gallons of water. Buying recycled paper

products saves water, too, as it takes about six gallons of water to produce

one dollar worth of paper.

Diet

The water it takes to produce the average American diet alone

approximately 1,000 gallons per person per day-is more than the global

average water footprint of 900 gallons per person per day for diet,

household use, transportation, energy, and the consumption of material

water, but for the damages as well. If you have a question about thermal expansion,

please contact the Engineering Division of the Public Service Commission.

Water Conservation Facts and Tips

By: Tammy Tabor, Supervisor II

Water and Wastewater Division

Public Service Commission

6

goods.

That quarter pounder is worth more than 30 average American showers.

One of the easiest ways to slim your water footprint is to eat less meat and

dairy. Another way is to choose grass-fed, rather than grain-fed, since it

can take a lot of water to grow corn and other feed crops.

A serving of poultry costs about 90 gallons of water to produce. There are

also water costs embedded in the transportation of goods (gasoline costs

water to make). So, consider how far your food has to travel, and buy

local to cut your water footprint.

Pork costs water to produce, and traditional pork production to make your

sausage, bacon, and chops, has also been the cause of some water

pollution, as pig waste runs into local water sources.

On average, a vegan, a person who doesn’t eat meat or dairy, indirectly

consumes nearly 600 gallons of water per day less than a person who eats

the average American diet.

A cup of coffee takes 55 gallons of water to make, with most of that H2O

used to grow the coffee beans.

http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/freshwater/water-

conservation-tips/

DEFERRED PAYMENT AGREEMENTS

By: Conrad Bramlee, Utility Analyst III

Water and Wastewater Division

Public Service Commission

The Public Service Commission’s Water Rule 4.8.a.9. and Sewer Rule 4.8.b.9. state

that a water or sewer ―…customer who has been notified that water service is to be

terminated for non-payment of either a water or sewer bill shall be given the

opportunity to enter into a deferred payment agreement: provided the customer has

demonstrated an ability to pay but only in installments. The customer shall be

7

informed at the time a disconnect notice is issued of the availability of a reasonable

payment plan.‖ While the utility and customer may enter into a deferred payment

agreement at anytime, if circumstances warrant, the utility should keep in mind the

Commission rules require a utility to give a customer receiving a termination notice

the opportunity to enter into a deferred payment agreement. However, the customer

must demonstrate that the only way they can pay is in installments. Deferred

payment agreements are not an extension of time to pay.

It is the responsibility of the customer to request a deferred payment agreement from

the utility stating that they can only pay their bill in payments. It is the utility’s

responsibility to develop a fair and equitable deferred payment policy that clearly

defines the criteria set forth in the Water and Sewer Rules. The deferred payment

policy should state:

1. what type of bill can be made in payments (but

not limited to i.e. major water leak, unemployment or extended

hospitalization, or other extenuating circumstances)

2. the documentation the customer should provide

and how much they are able to pay

3. that the customer must pay current bill on time

and in full, plus deferred payment agreement

amount on time and in full

Items that the utility may consider when negotiating a deferred payment agreement

with a customer are:

1. amount of the bill

2. ability of the customer to pay

3. payment history

4. length of time and reason for the outstanding debt

It is the customer’s responsibility to inform the utility that the customer’s financial

condition has changed to where the agreement works a hardship on the customer.

The utility will then renegotiate a deferred payment agreement with the customer.

The policy should also state what documentation the customer needs to provide as

proof of change in financial condition.

8

The utility must inform the customer that, if they feel the payment arrangement is

unreasonable, they can appeal to the Commission. During this time the utility

cannot terminate service so long as the customer pays the current bill on time and in

full.

Failure of the customer to comply with the terms and conditions of the deferred

payment agreement shall be proper cause for termination pursuant to Water Rule

4.8.a.9.F and Sewer Rule 4.8.b.9.F. which state, ―If the deferred payment is not

received in accordance with the terms of the agreement or the payment is made with

a check subsequently dishonored by the bank, the utility may terminate service only

after it has mailed written notice, by first class mail, to the customer at least five (5)

calendar days, excluding state or federal holidays, prior to termination: provided that

at the option of the utility, either personal contact or telephone contact with the

customer may be substituted for contact by first class mail. If the customer makes

the delinquent payment within that notice period, service shall not be terminated.

However, if the customer has, during the previous twelve (12) months, attempted to

make payment by a check which was subsequently dishonored by the bank the utility

may refuse the customer’s check and immediately terminate service without

additional notice.‖

A copy of a deferred payment agreement is included herewith.

9

That for and in consideration of these promises, of the parties to one another, the Customer(s) hereby agrees to pay the Utility the

arrearage in the amount of $ , and, further agrees that during the period of time covered by the Agreement, the

Customer(s) shall pay each current month’s Utility Bill for the utility service rendered in the Customer(s) name(s) at the address

shown below on or before the due date shown on each Utility billing. Further, the Utility agrees to not terminate such water

service for such debt now due and owing, unless the Customer(s) fails or refuses to meet the terms of this Agreement by not

making the proper and timely payment as set forth below.

It is clearly understood that failure to comply with these terms shall be proper cause for the termination of Utility service;

Provided, That the Customer(s) is given proper notice in accordance with the Water and/or Sewer Rules.

The details of the deferred payment Agreement are to be negotiated between the Utility and the Customer and may consider

several factors, including but not limited to the following: amount of the bill, ability of the customer to pay, payment history,

time the debt has been outstanding, reasons why the debt has been outstanding, and any other relevant factors; provided that the

Agreement requires payment of the current bill plus a specific amount per month on the arrearage.

It is the responsibility of the Customer(s) to inform the Utility (and to substantiate the same) when the Customer’s financial

conditions significantly change and the existing payment Agreement works a hardship. If such is documented by the Customer

(s), the Utility shall renegotiate the payment agreement consistent with the Water and/or Sewer Rules; however, the Customer

must timely pay the current bill and make some payment on the arrearage.

The Customer(s) has the right to appeal the reasonableness of the proposed payments to the PUBLIC SERVICE COMMIS-

SION. The Utility shall advise the Customer(s) of the Commission’s toll-free number in order to perfect such an appeal. During

the pendency of the appeal, the service may not be terminated; provided, however, that the current bill must be paid by the

Customer(s) in order to protect their rights under the Commission’s Rules.

If termination of Utility service occurs, the entire past due balance will be due and payable to the Utility. In addition, any

reconnection and disconnection charges provided in the Utility’s tariff as well as a security deposit may be required prior to the

restoration of water service.

PAYMENT DUE DATE AGREEMENT AMOUNT DUE

___________________________ UTILITY CUSTOMER’S SIGNATURE

By: _______________________________________________

ADDRESS

DEFERRED PAYMENT AGREEMENT (DELINQUENT WATER AND/OR SEWER SERVICE BILLS)

This AGREEMENT, made this day of , , by and between the

Customer of record, account number and this Utility, _____________________,

concerning a debt now due and owing to the Utility in the amount of $ .

WITNESSETH

10

It’s that time of year again. The 2014 state fiscal year is behind us and we have

issued our FY 2015 Intended Use Plan (IUP). There have been several changes

since last year, and I want to cover some of those as well as the status of funds

within the Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund (CWSRF).

Last year, the CWSRF closed on 16 loans worth $88,901,913 of which $8,848,105

was in the form of debt forgiveness. This year’s capitalization grant from EPA is

$21,856,000 and debt forgiveness and the green requirement will be grant

requirements. Our funds have always been issued on a first come, first served basis;

however, due to issues with all of the funds being committed to date, the SRF project

priority list will be used to determine the order in which competing projects will be

funded when funds are again available.

The major change in this year’s IUP is the move to the 2010 Census Data. As

discussed in the IUP, the CWSRF has moved to the 2010 data and the only projects

that were grandfathered under the 2000 data are those that had a binding

commitment of funds from the CWSRF and had filed with the Public Service

Commission. The 2010 data is listed in the Appendix of the IUP.

We are still offering funds under the Agricultural Water Quality Loan Program and

the Onsite Systems Loan Program. Reserves of $150,000 and $300,000,

respectively, have been set aside for both of these programs. The primary changes

to the IUP have been included in this article, but there are other changes that may be

of interest to you. I encourage you to read our 2015 IUP, which can be found on the

DEP’s website at http://www.dep.wv.gov/WWE/Programs/SRF/Pages/default.aspx .

As always, feel free to contact me or any other employee of the CWSRF program

with any questions.

WV CWSRF Program Status

By: Katheryn Emery, P. E.

CWSRF Program Manager

West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection

11

Introduction

Manufacturers have been using natural gas to create steam heat and electricity for

industrial facilities for many years. Known as ―combined heat and power‖ (CHP),

this energy is generated close to where it is needed, so little is lost in transmission.

CHP can produce energy twice as efficiently as older electric generating systems.

CHP, also called cogeneration, is an efficient and clean approach to generating

electric power and useful thermal energy from a single fuel source. Every CHP

application involves the generation of electricity and the recovery of otherwise

wasted thermal energy. Therefore, CHP provides greater energy efficiency and

environmental benefits than separate heat and power.

Many municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) that have anaerobic

digesters utilize the digester gas, or methane, to fuel boilers which, in turn, heat the

digester. The leftover gas is flared. CHP can be a reliable, cost-effective option for

WWTPs that have, or are planning to install, anaerobic digesters. Digester gas, also

known as Biogas, flows from these digesters and can be used in a CHP system as

fuel to generate reliable electricity and heat for the WWTP. CHP systems are

essentially motors that run off of biogas. The motor turns a turbine to create

electricity, and the heat from the engine can heat the digester and shop or office

space. For most treatment plants, use of a digester-gas-fueled CHP system has the

potential to offset energy consumption by up to 40 percent.

The overall percentage of energy recovery is a combination of factors, including the

effectiveness of the digestion process, the efficiency of the CHP system, the type of

treatment processes, and the efficiency of the WWTP’s liquid stream treatment. The

addition of fats, oils and grease (FOG) and other highly digestible waste streams to

the anaerobic digestion process can dramatically enhance digester gas production,

making CHP systems cost-effective at WWTPs with wastewater flows less than 10

million gallons per day (mgd). Regardless of wastewater treatment capacity,

WWTPs operating or considering CHP should evaluate the potential to add FOG

and/or other digester feed stocks to the anaerobic digestion process. The increased

Combined Heat and Power – Saving Communities Energy and Money

By: Valerie Breznicky,

Office of Infrastructure and Assistance, U. S. EPA

12

digester gas production translates directly into cost offsets for electric power and

greater heat production for use as process heat. Additional process heat offsets a

larger portion of supplemental fuel needs and associated costs.

Feasibility analysis

CHP systems can provide significant economic benefits; however, determining

whether this type of system is economically viable depends on a number of site

specific characteristics such as the energy consumption of the facility, the price of

fuel and retail electricity, and the costs of installing and maintaining the CHP

equipment. A Feasibility Analysis is often the first step in determining the economic

viability of CHP at a site. The purpose of this analysis is to provide enough

information on project economics to allow decisions to be made regarding further

investment, while minimizing the amount of up-front time and money spent. The

EPA CHP Partnership (discussed later in this article) can assist in the Feasibility

Analysis.

The first step of the analysis is to identify the system size and electrical demand of

the treatment plant. Electrical demand can be determined from a utility bill analysis,

available plant data and site information. This information will be used to determine

which type of CHP technology will be best for a facility. An economic analysis

included with the study is usually a simple payback calculation which considers: the

amount of power produced by the CHP system and the amount to be used on-site;

the offset cost of utility purchased energy; the amount of energy and cost associated

with running the CHP system; and the anticipated cost to install and maintain the

system. Further analysis may show the benefits of available grants or incentives,

costs and benefits associated with using the system to provide backup power in a

utility outage and impacts of future utility rate increases or decreases.

Greenhouse gas emissions and renewable energy credits

The operation of a CHP system can significantly reduce a WWTP’s direct and

indirect greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The production of electricity onsite from

digester gas also results in the reduction of indirect emissions as the amount of

electricity purchased from a power provider is reduced. For each 4.5 mgd processed

by a WWTP with anaerobic digestion, the generated biogas can produce

approximately 100 kilowatts (kW) of electricity. Using 2004 Clean Water Needs

Survey data, a total of 2.3 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emission reductions

13

can be achieved through increased use of CHP at WWTPs. These reductions are

equivalent to planting approximately 640,000 acres of forest, or the emissions of

approximately 430,000 cars.

The use of biogas from anaerobic digestion at WWTPs is often eligible for

renewable fuel credits and clean energy funding. For example, biogas-fueled

electricity generation qualifies as a renewable energy source in the District of

Columbia and the 22 states that have a renewable portfolio standard. National

voluntary renewable energy credit (REC) programs also consider new electricity

generation fueled by biogas from WWTPs as eligible sources for REC’s. A

renewable energy credit (sometimes referred to as a renewable energy certificate or

"greentag") is an environmental commodity that represents the added value,

environmental benefits and cost of renewable energy above conventional methods of

producing electricity, like coal and natural gas. Purchasing these credits is the

widely accepted way to reduce the environmental footprint of a facility’s electricity

consumption and help fund renewable energy development. Purchasing RECs

equivalent to the amount of a facility’s electricity consumption guarantees that the

energy used is supplied to the power grid from a renewable energy facility and

supports the further development of these facilities.

CHP technologies

Municipal wastewater treatment facilities have successfully incorporated CHP

systems into their operations, employing a variety of technologies:

Internal combustion engines fueled by digester gas, are the most widely used.

Internal combustion engines have been utilized for many years to convert

digester gas thermal energy to mechanical energy which can be utilized to

drive electrical generators or other prime mover equipment (e.g., pumps,

blowers). Internal combustion gas engines convert input thermal energy into

three major output components: (1) mechanical energy; (2) captured thermal

energy; and (3) exhaust waste energy. Mechanical energy is the primary

engine output transferred to the downstream electrical generator or prime

mover equipment.

Combustion gas turbines, commonly referred to as ―gas turbines,‖ are another

common technology. Gas turbines are a type of internal combustion (IC)

engine in which burning of an air-fuel mixture produces hot gases that spin a

turbine to produce power. It is the production of hot gas during fuel

14

combustion, not the fuel itself that gives the gas turbines the name.

Combustion gas turbines are often a good fit at the largest WWTPs where

they have successfully utilized the gas turbines to simultaneously gen-

erate electric power and usable heat energy.

Microturbines, first introduced about 20 years ago, are a relatively new CHP

technology that has become more popular in recent years due to their clean

emissions and relatively small sizes. Microturbines are fully packaged

modular machines that comprise the smallest capacity CHP units available.

Microturbines are a relatively new digester gas energy recovery technology

when compared to boilers and internal combustion gas engines. In a

microturbine, the gas is direct combusted and the expanded gas stream is

routed through a shaft mounted turbine attached to a generator component for

the production of electrical power.

Steam turbines represent a distinct CHP technology that relies on thermal

energy to produce mechanical and/or electrical power. While steam turbines

do not directly convert fuel to power, the thermal power upon which they

operate is derived from other fuel combustion equipment, typically steam

boilers. Steam turbines consist of a series of ever-expanding blades attached

to a rotating drive shaft driven by expanding pressurized steam. Steam

turbines are simple, reliable and typically require little maintenance. Steam

boilers also represent well-proven machinery, long used at WWTPs. Few

WWTPs in the United States have sufficient capacity to produce digester gas

in adequate quantities to fuel this type of system.

The two more common CHP systems employed at WWTPs—internal combustion

engines and microturbines—can produce roughly 100 kW of electric capacity from a

total wastewater influent flow rate of 4.5 mgd. Each WWTP considering CHP will

need to perform its own site-specific feasibility analysis to determine: potential

biogas generation rates; methods to compress, clean, and dry the biogas before

combustion; and the specific costs and benefits of generating onsite heat and

electricity for their WWTP. Based on influent flow rates, the microturbine would be

appropriate for a small WWTP with a minimum influent flow rate of 6 mgd. The

reciprocating engine would be appropriate for a large WWTP with at least a 40 mgd

influent flow rate. Facilities of less than 6 mgd would benefit from partnering with a

local industry that would contribute additional ―food,‖ mostly in the form of FOG,

for the system that would increase the gas production and make a CHP system

15

viable.

Funding and technical resources

Energy efficiency upgrades at water and sewer treatment facilities are eligible for

low interest rate loans through EPA’s Clean Water (CW) and Drinking Water (DW)

State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs. These upgrades can be individual projects or

part of a larger overall upgrade at a facility. In addition, many states implementing

the CWSRF and DWSRF programs award priority ranking points for applications

that include energy efficient upgrades and other sustainability, climate change, and

resiliency elements. In the past few years, the CWSRF program has required States

to provide a percentage of its EPA capitalization grants to projects that meet a

―green reserve‖ criteria which includes green infrastructure, energy efficiency, water

conservation, and environmentally innovative projects. The priority ranking points

and green reserve requirements have resulted in many energy efficiency projects

receiving low interest rate financing and subsidization through the CWSRF and

DWSRF programs. General information and specific state contacts for the programs

can be found at:

http://water.epa.gov/grants_funding/cwsrf/cwsrf_index.cfm

http://water.epa.gov/grants_funding/dwsrf/index.cfm

There are several reports and organizations available to assist the wastewater

treatment industry which offer a wealth of information concerning wastewater

treatment and the use of anaerobic digestion.

Evaluation of Combined Heat and Power Technologies for Wastewater

Facilities – This interim report serves as a planning-level tool for wastewater

professionals and provides an examination of commonly used and emerging

combined heat and power technologies for converting anaerobic digester gas

to electrical power and process heat. This report was developed by Columbus

Water Works, under an assistance agreement awarded by EPA in support of

the Columbus Biosolids Flow-Through Thermophilic Treatment National

Demonstration Project.

EPA Office of Wastewater Management (OWM) – OWM oversees a range of

programs contributing to the well-being of the nation’s waters and watersheds.

National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) – NACWA

16

represents the interests of more than 300 public agencies and organizations.

NACWA members serve the majority of the sewered population in the United

States and collectively treat and reclaim more than 18 billion gallons of waste-

water daily.

Water Environment Federation (WEF) – Founded in 1928, WEF is a not-for-

profit technical and educational organization with members from varied

disciplines who work toward the organization’s vision of preservation and

enhancement of the global water environment.

Water Environment Research Foundation (WERF) – WERF helps improve the

water environment and protect human health by providing sound, reliable

science and innovative, effective, cost-saving technologies for improved

management of water resources.

Air & Waste Management Association (A&WMA) – A&WMA is a non-profit,

nonpartisan professional organization that provides training, information, and

networking opportunities to thousands of environmental professionals in 65

countries.

CHP Partnership

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a CHP Partnership

which is a voluntary program that promotes efficient CHP technologies across the

United States. The Partnership works closely with energy users, the CHP industry,

state and local governments, and other clean energy stakeholders to facilitate the

development of new projects and to promote their environmental and economic

benefits.

The CHP Partnership offers a variety of tools and services designed to facilitate and

promote development of CHP projects. A complete list of tools, services, and

benefits can be found on the CHP Partnership website: www.epa.gov/chp. CHP

project qualification tools help to determine whether CHP is worth considering at a

particular facility. The CHP Emissions Calculator compares the anticipated CH4,

CO2, CO2e, SO2, N2O, and NOX emissions from a CHP system to the emissions from

a separate heat and power system. The Partnership also offers public recognition

through the ENERGY STAR® Program, EPA Awards (an annual Certificate of

Greenhouse Gas Reduction, a certificate that shows the carbon reductions of a

project, is presented) and publicity. A profile of each partner appears on the

Partnership website.

17

The CHP Partnership also offers resources for Education and Outreach such as

information for regulators, policymakers, and utilities to encourage energy efficiency

and CHP, peer-to-peer marketing and networking at workshops and conferences,

examples of model state policies for promoting CHP, such as output-based

emissions regulations, CHP-friendly utility rates, and renewable portfolio standards

that include CHP, information about CHP markets and topical email announcements

highlighting Partnership activities, funding opportunities, and upcoming events.

Other resources include information about the CHP project development process,

including access to tools and recommendations to facilitate successful projects,

information about CHP prime movers, including cost and performance

characteristics, current information on state and federal incentives applicable to

CHP, including financial incentives and favorable regulatory treatment and technical

white papers and other clean energy resource documents.

Conclusion

As a cost-effective means of making energy-efficiency gains, CHP represents a

tremendous opportunity. The ability of this technology to be added to a WWTP –

and the benefits that can be gained through energy generation using the by-products

of an existing treatment process – is an opportunity that cannot be wasted.

PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF WEST VIRGINIA

WATER AND WASTEWATER DIVISION

ADMINISTRATION

Dave Acord, Director [email protected] 340-0366

Lisa Coleman, Administrative Secretary [email protected] 340-0459

Nancy Tincher, Secretary [email protected] 340-0440

Assistance Staff

William Nelson, Manager [email protected] 340-0445

GRANTS & FUNDING, FINANCE, ADMINISTRATIVE, OFFICE OPERATIONS

Jim Boggess, Utilities Analyst II [email protected] 340-0769

Bonnie Boston, Utilities Analyst II [email protected] 340-0479

Conrad Bramlee, Utilities Analyst III [email protected] 340-0471

Versie Hill, Utilities Analyst II [email protected] 340-0870

Laura Leport, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0473

INFORMAL COMPLAINTS

Tammy Tabor, Supervisor [email protected] 340-0826

Rhonda Boothe, Consumer Affairs Tech [email protected] 340-0467

Sharon Godwin, Consumer Affairs Tech [email protected] 340-0494

Vicki Lemley, Consumer Affairs Tech [email protected] 340-0379

FAX 304-340-3759

ENGINEERING DIVISION

ADMINISTRATION

Earl Melton, PE, Director [email protected] 340-0392

Victoria Trent, Secretary [email protected] 340-0370

Assistance Staff

CASE CONTROL

David W. Dove, PE, Senior Engineer [email protected] 340-0436

Lisa Bailey, Technical Analyst I [email protected] 340-0499

Jonathan Fowler, PE, Engineer III [email protected] 340-0491

Kristopher Huff, Technical Trainee [email protected] 340-0443

David Holley, Technical Analyst I [email protected] 340-0328

Mansour Mashayekhi, Technical Analyst Assoc [email protected] 340-0428

Jim Spurlock, Technical Analyst II [email protected] 340-0357

Sylvie Steranka, Technical Analyst I [email protected] 340-0466

James C. Weimer, PE, Engineer I [email protected] 340-0476

ASSISTANCE

Jeff Bennett, Utility Inspector II [email protected] 340-0313

Ralph Clark, PE Engineer [email protected] 340-0455

Eric DeGruyter, Technical Analyst III [email protected] 340-0388

Craig Miller, Utility Inspector II [email protected] 340-0353

John Mottesheard, Engineering Technician [email protected] 340-0399

Wayne Perdue, Technical Analyst I [email protected] 340-0493

Don Walker, Technical Analyst I [email protected] 340-0434

FAX 304-340-0452

UTILITIES DIVISON

ADMINISTRATION

Terry Eads, Director [email protected] 340-0421

Lynn Scott, Administrative Secretary [email protected] 340-0350

Mike Dailey, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0495

Mandy VanMeter, Secretary II [email protected] 340-0833

Brandi Murray, Office Assistant II [email protected] 340-0365

Paul Stewart (Contract) [email protected] 340-0771

CARRIER AND CONSUMER OPERATIONS

Michael Fletcher, Deputy Director [email protected] 340-0367 Carla Nelson, Consumer Affairs, Supervisor [email protected] 340-0424

Brenda Sovine, Secretary [email protected] 340-0458

Jill Bevins, Office Assistant II [email protected] 340-0415

MOTOR CARRIER & FORMAL COMPLAINTS

Steve Kaz, Supervisor [email protected] 340-0760 Stacy Beller, Utilities Analyst II [email protected] 340-0444

Dwayne Bevins, Utility Inspector III [email protected] 340-0449

Robert Cadle, Utilities Analyst II [email protected] 340-0419

Bill Flenner, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0496

Jennifer Moore, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0837

Dave Rupel, Utilities Analyst II [email protected] 340-0765

AUDITS, FINANCE AND RATES

Diane Davis, Deputy Director [email protected] 340-0369

CASE AUDITS

Tom Sprinkle, Manager [email protected] 340-0345

LONG TERM AUDITS

Ed Oxley, Supervisor [email protected] 340-0360

Ronald Ash, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0869

Erin Deegan, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0768

Alex Kovarik, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0358

SHORT TERM AUDITS

Dave Pauley, Supervisor [email protected] 340-0439

Juan Arboleda, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0352

Errol Griebel, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0773

Aaron Pillar, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0816

Christopher Shafer, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0435

REVENUE REQUIREMENTS

Dixie Kellmeyer, Manager [email protected] 340-0762

Joshua Allen, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0771

Karen Buckley, Utilities Analyst II [email protected] 340-0470

19A CASE

Vacant, Manager

Jonathan Beeman, Utilities Analyst I [email protected] 340-0868

Troy Eggleton, Utilities Analyst II [email protected] 340-0397

Pam Latocha, Utilities Analyst II [email protected] 340-0422

Pete Lopez, Utilities Analyst II [email protected] 340-0823

FAX 340-340-0326