Viridi, a leader in fail-safe Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), has successfully installed its advanced battery system at a wastewater pumping station operated by Erie County Sewer District No. 2 in the Town of Hamburg. The project strengthens critical public infrastructure while lowering operating costs and reducing diesel emissions.
Replacing Diesel with Cleaner Technology
Wastewater pumping stations are essential for protecting public health. However, many rely on diesel generators for backup power. These generators require regular testing, fuel treatment, and maintenance, even though they are used infrequently. Estimates suggest that maintaining a single diesel generator can cost between $5,000 and $10,000 annually. In addition, high inrush currents and frequent start-stop cycles often require municipalities to oversize their equipment.
Viridi’s newly installed 150 kWh RPSLink BESS offers a safer and more cost-effective alternative. The system can provide 32 to 90 hours of backup power, depending on pump demand. It ensures uninterrupted operation during outages without fuel use, emissions, or high maintenance requirements.
Improved Reliability and Monitoring
“By replacing the outdated diesel generator with a Viridi battery energy storage system, we eliminate fuel dependency, expect reductions in maintenance costs, and achieve near-instant backup power and dovetails neatly with Erie County’s ongoing climate and energy goals,” said Angela M. Horton, P.E., Senior Sanitary Engineer for Erie County Division of Sewerage Management. “This transition not only cuts our emissions, but we expect improvements in reliability and resilience for these critical wastewater pumping operations. While the Viridi system was only recently installed, we are very optimistic about its future impacts.”
The system includes real-time remote monitoring and alert features, reducing the need for site visits and allowing quick detection of issues.
Model for Future Installations
Erie County has nearly 100 similar pump stations, creating significant opportunities for cost savings and decarbonization.
“This project shows what’s possible when public infrastructure embraces safer, smarter, and more sustainable energy technologies,” said Jon M. Williams, CEO of Viridi. He added that wastewater stations have relied on diesel systems for decades, and Viridi’s fail-safe BESS provides “a cleaner, more reliable, and more economical path forward.”
The project sets a new benchmark for battery storage in critical infrastructure. Viridi’s American-made, FEOC-compliant systems are also deployed at institutions such as the Denver Public Library and West Point campus, supporting resilient and sustainable energy solutions.
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