RESIDENTS might notice something in the water over the next week as an innovative disinfection system – that uses 323 solar panels – starts operating.
Logan City Council has used solar power to create an Australia-first with the off-grid system powered by a commercial-sized Tesla battery.
A council spokesperson said some customers might notice a slight change in the smell and taste of their water.
“This is normal,” the spokesperson said.
The upgraded Round Mountain Reservoir provides water to Cedar Grove, Cedar Vale, Chambers Flat, Flagstone, Greenbank, Jimboomba, Logan Village, Mundoolun, New Beith, North Maclean, Park Ridge South, South Maclean, Stockleigh, Woodhill and Yarrabilba.
Mayor Luke Smith said the innovative upgrade had saved council $1.9 million in capital costs and about $50,000 a year in operational costs.
“The reservoir will provide drinking water for 170,000 in the next 20 years,” he said.
“This is set to be one of the fastest growing areas in south-east Queensland over the next two decades but with that growth comes the issue of building assets larger than are needed right now.”
The innovative approach came about because the reservoir site is not connected to mains power or accessible via a sealed road.
“We were concerned until demand increases, water stored in the network may age and not stay at the highest possible quality,” Cr Smith said.
“We decided there was a need for a dedicated water chlorination station at the reservoir.”
The solar powered electro-chlorination facility was confirmed as the preferred technology.
Cr Smith said council would consider how to use the innovation in sewerage treatment plants.
Supplier and installer CSR Bradford’s business manager Ashleigh O’Brien said the project showcased the growing potential for assets to achieve energy security through solar and battery technology.
The council spokesperson said changes to chlorine levels would be carefully controlled and monitored.
“At all times, council will maintain the water supply to meet the requirements of the Australian drinking water guidelines.”
The spokesperson said there may be temporary discolouration, which could be managed by running the tap for about 10 minutes.
If the water continues to be discoloured after that time, contact council on 3412 3412.
