Report

Teaser, summary, work performed and final results

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - EBBR (Commercialisation of expanded bed biofilm reactor technology for the treatment of waste-, used- or contaminated-water and for improved protection of the aquatic environment and atmosphere.)

Teaser

ABD’s wishes to trial commercial prototypes of its wastewater treatment technology in different climate zones of Europe, to replicate the excellent performance at pilot-scale in the UK.

Summary

ABD’s wishes to trial commercial prototypes of its wastewater treatment technology in different climate zones of Europe, to replicate the excellent performance at pilot-scale in the UK.

Work performed

Optimat were sub-contracted to survey the continental market and, together with ABD, a comprehensive report was produced. This focussed on countries with most need or where ABD has patent protection. ABD concentrated on the UK and Ireland, using Environment Agency data for England and Wales, or by contacting Scottish Water and Irish Water.
Opportunities provided by Anglian Water and Scottish Water for innovation proposals were taken, and we should hear back early in 2016. We attended meetings where water companies presented their requirements and our network of contacts was strengthened and extended to include potential investors and commercialisation partners.
Using the Köppen-Geiger climate classification, ABD identified that the UK and Ireland form a continuous climate area with Central W Europe. Suitable additional areas to trial the technology are the Iberian Peninsula, Southern, Northern or Eastern Europe.
It was only possible to identify a few potential Licensees in total, owing to not yet having any demonstration sites. Therefore, a Phase 2 project to provide such sites is essential. We also identified several potential end-users keen to act as pioneers, which will provide these demonstration sites.
ABD’s business plan was revised, by updating information on UK markets and adding information on other European markets, potential licensees and end-users. This objective was achieved with the help of the Business Coach.
We have obtained commercial information for considering a Phase 2 application and to help raise funding from a variety of other sources. An investor pitch was developed with help from Manchester’s Access to Finance Office and used at the Venturefest Northwest Innovation Showcase Competition Finals. This experience will form the basis of a pitch to the Northwest Business Angels consortium early in 2016.

Final results

Either through SME Instrument Phase 2 funding or investment, a commercial prototype will be designed by ABD and plants constructed by an engineering partner of the water companies hosting a trial. Adoption of this innovative and energy-efficient technology with low greenhouse gas emissions will help wastewater treatment plant operators to comply with legislation for protection of the aquatic environment and governments to comply with relevant EU Directives.

Website & more info

More info: https://ebbr2015.wordpress.com/home/.