Comprehensive Water Strategy for Major UK Car Manufacturer

Client Overview

Jacob Tompkins is currently developing a comprehensive water strategy for a major UK car manufacturer. The client requires an efficient and sustainable approach to manage their significant water usage across production facilities.

Challenge

The car manufacturer needs to optimise water usage, reduce costs, and ensure sustainability across their operations, including areas with high water demand such as the paint shop.

Solution

TWRC, under the leadership of Jacob Tompkins, is conducting a site-level water audit and developing a comprehensive water strategy. Key elements of the strategy include:

• Boreholes: Identifying and utilising underground water sources to reduce dependence on mains water.
• Rainwater Harvesting: Implementing systems to capture and store rainwater for non-potable uses.
• Water Reuse: Utilising microbial fuel cells to treat and recycle water from the paint shop, enabling reuse and reducing effluent discharge.
• Water Efficiency Measures: Installing water-saving fixtures and optimising processes to minimise water usage.
• Surface Water Drainage: Assessing and improving drainage systems to manage runoff effectively.
• Trade Effluent and Sewerage Assessments: Ensuring accurate billing and compliance with regulatory standards.

Implementation

• Conducting a detailed audit to identify current water usage patterns and potential areas for improvement.
• Designing and installing boreholes and rainwater harvesting systems tailored to the facility’s needs.
• Implementing microbial fuel cells to treat and reuse paint shop water efficiently.
• Installing advanced water-saving fixtures and optimising water-intensive processes.
• Evaluating and upgrading surface water drainage systems to enhance management and compliance.
• Reviewing trade effluent and sewerage charges to ensure accuracy and secure potential cost reductions.

Expected Results

• Cost Reduction: Significant savings through reduced mains water usage and improved water efficiency.
• Sustainability: Enhanced sustainability profile through innovative water reuse and harvesting methods.
• Operational Efficiency: Improved water management leading to more efficient and resilient production operations.
• Compliance: Ensured compliance with regulatory requirements for trade effluent and sewerage.