InPipe Energy
An underutilized source of generating clean renewable energy is using water pressure delivered to cities converting it into energy.
InPipe is working with cities installing In-PRV systems either above or below ground in a vault, to divert water pressure to a turbine creating free energy and providing it back to the very cities grid, pump station or water utility treatment plant.
The HydroXS Recovery System first California installation is at the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) in the San Francisco Bay Area.
How It Works:
It’s essentially a micro-hydro turbine coupled with a control valve that takes the excess pressure in a municipal water system and converts it into clean renewable energy. Interestingly, a HydroXS basically replaces a pressure reducing valve installed on site and allows it to capture the energy which would normally be burned off as friction and allow to reduce the water pressure.
It is a predictable consistent reliable source of low-cost electricity.
Design Challenge:
Focus of the design program was to create a first ever innovative iconic enclosure allowing for easy installation and multiple access points for serviceability. Full access is needed to be performed by a single technician, covers needed to be held securely open during maintenance while securing them afterwards to keep closed. Sound Deadening Materials and air baffles to cool the inside were introduced, while keeping noise level down.
Overall Value: Commitment to efficiency, sustainability and decarbonization.
Video highlighting usage of multiple access covers for serviceability
