IEUA Receives the 2017 Excellence in Innovation and Sustainability Award

Inland Empire, CA – The California Association of Sanitation Agencies (CASA) presented the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA/Agency) with the 2017 Excellence in Innovation and Sustainability award for the Regional Water Recycling Plant No. 5 (RP-5) Battery Storage Project at their annual conference held on August 23 in San Diego. The annual Excellence in Innovation and Sustainability Award, presented by CASA, recognizes efforts in the innovative application of existing technology and the development of new, cutting-edge technology applied to wastewater collection, treatment, wastewater and biosolids recycling, and renewable energy production. Technologies that are extremely innovative, constitute sustainable practices and have broad application to others in the industry are recognized.

In June 2016, IEUA became the first public agency to begin using the state-of-the-art battery storage technology when it was installed at RP-5, the first of four IEUA facilities that will utilize this technology. A total of 1 megawatt hour of Tesla batteries was successfully integrated into the facility’s electrical profile, which includes grid imports and on-site renewable generation in the form of solar and a food waste-to-energy cogeneration project. The project reduces dependency on the grid by optimizing distribution of on-site renewable power; achieves energy cost savings by reducing imported electricity during periods of high grid demand; provides relief to the grid by using stored energy during periods of high grid demand; and improves demand response (DR) capabilities by utilizing stored energy during DR events.

“IEUA continues to be a leader in innovation and sustainability projects,” stated Steve Elie, IEUA Board President. “This battery storage project is the key to maximizing the value of IEUA’s investments in renewable energy, allowing us to reduce costs for our customers, use our resources more efficiently and participate in building a more resilient electric grid for the whole region.”

“It is an honor to receive recognition from CASA for our energy storage project,” stated Jasmin A. Hall, IEUA Board Secretary/Treasurer and CASA Board of Director. “IEUA maintains a well-earned reputation as a leader in efficiency, and will continue to manage energy resources including renewable energy initiatives and programs to achieve statewide environmental and renewable energy goals, and stabilize future costs.”

CASA acts as a leading voice for public wastewater agencies on regulatory, legislative and legal issues. CASA is an association of local agencies, engaged in advancing the recycling of wastewater into usable water, generation of renewable energy, and other valuable resources. Through these efforts CASA hopes to create a clean and sustainable environment for Californians. The CASA Awards Program recognizes organizations that work hard to do what’s right for California. Recognition from the leading clean water association honors their hard work and accomplishments. It’s a symbol of respect, credibility, and innovation.

The Inland Empire Utilities Agency covers 242-square miles, distributes imported water, provides industrial/municipal wastewater collection and treatment services, and other related utility services to more than 875,000 people through its member agencies which include Chino, Chino Hills, Cucamonga Valley Water District, Fontana, Fontana Water Company, Montclair, Monte Vista Water District, Ontario, and Upland.

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