Conserving freshwater is critically important for people and planet. With innovative sustainable technologies that provide access to a forgotten renewable resource, not only can we save water, we can reduce harmful emissions and energy consumption.
We spoke with Hanspaul Pannu, CFO and COO at SHARC Energy, about how this organization is contributing to a more sustainable future by developing and installing innovative wastewater energy systems.
What was the “spark” that inspired your founders to start your organization?
The inspiration behind SHARC Energy stemmed from recognizing the untapped potential of wastewater. Our founders Lynn Mueller and Daryle Anderson, both seasoned professionals in geothermal heat pump marketing and mechanical contracting, envisioned harnessing this resource for wastewater energy transfer (WET). Their goal was to develop innovative solutions that could significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future.
What do you consider to be your biggest success? Can you share any stories of the impact your work has had that have surprised you?
One of our biggest successes is the adoption and effectiveness of our SHARC and PIRANHA WET systems. These systems have been implemented in over 30 installations worldwide, demonstrating substantial energy savings and environmental benefits from freshwater savings and carbon emissions reductions.
A notable success story is the PIRANHA system’s performance during the EPRI Incubatenergy Labs 2020 Pilot Project, where it was validated by several large US energy utilities. Additionally, the integration of our WET systems in four countries on three continents showcases the technology’s reliability and applicability in diverse settings.
How can using wastewater as an energy source help make the world better?
Using wastewater as an energy source or sink offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it transfers thermal energy with wastewater, reducing the usage of gas or electricity for heating and cooling, which makes it extremely energy efficient. It also lowers greenhouse gas emissions by utilizing a renewable and consistent energy source, creating a positive environmental impact.
Additionally, wastewater energy transfer systems enhance energy resilience by providing access to a forgotten renewable resource. And these systems help save freshwater by reducing the demand on cooling towers, which are significant water consumers, contributing in this way to conservation.
What are some of the challenges you typically face in carrying out your purpose?
We face several challenges, including resistance to change, as engineers and building owners can be hesitant to adopt new technologies, preferring tried-and-tested methods. Regulatory and compliance issues are other challenges we face. Ensuring that WET systems meet building codes, safety standards, and other regulations can be complex. And awareness and education can also be challenging. Many potential customers are unaware of the benefits and capabilities of WET systems, which require education and demonstrations to overcome.
Are there any upcoming initiatives or projects you’d like to share?
We continue to expand our reach with new installations and partnerships. We are actively working on integrating our systems into larger district energy networks, or Thermal Energy Networks (TENs), and exploring new opportunities in adjacent markets to new build residential.
The leləm̓ project employs our Wastewater Energy Transfer (WET) system to meet the heating and cooling needs of the community. The centralized energy facility uses a low-carbon wastewater energy transfer system to meet 80% of the thermal energy needs of the community and provides significant carbon savings, energy efficiency, and freshwater savings compared to traditional systems.
What can people do to help support your mission?
Individuals and organizations can support SHARC Energy’s mission in a few key ways. They can adopt sustainable technologies and consider implementing SHARC and PIRANHA systems in their buildings to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. They can also spread awareness by educating others about the benefits of WET and promoting its adoption within their communities and industries.
Engineers and architects getting official professional development hours or continuing education can get training on how to incorporate the power of wastewater into their sustainable building projects with us at sharcenergy.com/training.
Another way to support our mission is by advocating for and supporting policies and regulations that incentivize the adoption of WET systems, including sewer access for thermal energy transfer for both private and public entities.
We’re also a public company (CSE:SHRC), so potential investors interested in supporting us and a clean energy future can visit our investor page.And lastly, we are happy to invite individuals and organizations to partner with SHARC Energy on new projects and research initiatives to further advance our technology and its applications.
This story was featured in the Make The World Better Magazine:
