The utilisation of renewable energies leads to new pumping station concepts:
New pumping station concepts are needed if pumping station operation is to be organised in such a way that renewable energy generated on site is also consumed on site as far as possible.
A photovoltaic system with 34 kWp was installed at the Gillenbeuren pumping station in the Ulmen municipality. The operator, Verbandsgemeindewerke Ulmen, and BITControl have jointly designed a hybrid pumping station that consumes a high proportion of the electricity generated on site directly, thus minimising the amount of electricity purchased.
Components of the pumping station are
- the photovoltaic system with 34 kWp
- a battery to extend the use of renewable energies
- An existing pool can be used as a large template
- Pneumatic pumps with low output for dry weather conditions
- A progressive cavity pump with high efficiency in rainy weather
In dry weather, the system can be temporarily stored for a long time so that pumping can take place when PV power is available. Pumping with air prevents odour problems at the downstream sewage treatment plant. The low output of the pumps makes it possible to operate the pumps even at partial PV system output.



The pumping station was commissioned in April. Since then, 77 % of the pumping station's electricity requirements have been covered by the energy produced on site. To date, a total of 20,800 kWh has been produced at the pumping station and 8,270 kWh has been consumed.

Post written by Norbert Meyer, 27.09.2024