Energy systems use significant water and produce wastewaters that require treatment and management.

Recently, southewestern Pennsylvania has been experiencing an increase in energy extraction activities (in shale gas).  Concurrently, new regulations for power plants are altering the wastewaters produced and the requirements for their management.  These two energy associated changes are affecting discharges of wastewater to watersheds that are also used as drinking water sources.

Power Plant Discharges and Downstream Drinking Water Effects

Oil and Gas Produced Water Discharges in Southwestern Pennsylvania