Water utility in Ivano-Frankivsk region will operate without interruption

A solar power plant (SPP) has been installed in the Rohatyn community. It will increase the reliability of wastewater treatment and water supply stability for more than eight thousand consumers.

The power plant has a capacity of 36.2 kW and a battery capacity of 40.8 kWh. The funds were received as part of the Renewable Energy for Sustainable Ukraine project implemented by GIZ on behalf of the German government. The NGO Ecoclub accompanied the installation. The cost of the solar power plant is 57,500 euros.

Last year, the company operated under challenging conditions. During prolonged power outages, biological wastewater treatment was suspended and difficult to resume. In blackouts, the SPP will power the necessary wastewater treatment equipment for an hour.

“The blackouts made us think about switching to renewable energy sources. We have already achieved 30% energy savings by upgrading equipment and implementing energy saving measures, but this is not enough. The solar power plant is the next important step towards the energy security of our water utility,” says Ihor Zalypko, Chief Engineer of Rohatyn Vodokanal.

According to preliminary estimates, the plant will generate over 38 thousand kWh of electricity annually. The water utility will save approx. 6,250 euros annually on electricity bills.

“War and shelling constantly threaten critical infrastructure, including water supply. The installation of a solar power plant is an important contribution to energy independence and increased reliability of the water utility’s facilities,” said Andrii Ryzhan, director of Rohatyn Vodokanal.

“We plan to scale the project and install additional solar panels at the water intake. This will reduce the water supply tariff and improve the quality of services,” adds Ihor Zalypko.

The project “Renewable Energy for Sustainable Ukraine” is implemented by GIZ on behalf of the German government.