Greentech Lead Europe: The wastewater aeration systems
market earned revenues of $4.88 billion in 2011 and estimates this to
reach $8.39 billion in 2020.
The aeration systems will see increased global uptake,
due to the demand for wider connectivity to secondary wastewater treatment
services in developing regions. The need to revamp the extensive installed base
in developed countries increases additional demand.
“There is an increasing need for secondary
wastewater treatment, particularly in developing countries where existing
wastewater treatment plant infrastructure is either non-existent or in a poorly
developed state,” said Frost & Sullivan Environmental Research
Analyst, Bhooma Madhavan . “At the same time, most wastewater
treatment facilities in developed countries are in an ageing state, requiring
immediate refurbishment.”
Bolstered by progressively stricter environmental regulation
across all regions, these trends will push the uptake of aeration systems.
Mandatory compliance with wastewater related legislation, such as the Urban
Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD) in the EU, will also heighten demand for
aeration equipment.
However, the energy-intensive nature of aeration remains
an area of concern, particularly at a time when energy prices are rising.
The high energy intensity of aeration will encourage
greater innovation and competitiveness in the market; while, it opens itself to
the threat of alternative technologies that enable energy recovery.
Energy-efficient performance will, therefore, be a key consideration in
equipment and technology selection. Other important selection indices will be
price, technology and reliability.
“In addition, as local companies become more
prominent, especially in high-growth markets in developing regions, knowledge
of local business practices, regulations and an understanding of market
priorities will become vital,” advised Madhavan. “Manufacturers will
need to combine a grasp of local dynamics along with the right product to
succeed.”