The University of Texas at Austin is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative to develop the UT WaterHub®, an innovative water processing facility. This project represents a major step forward in sustainable water management and resource conservation on campus.
About the UT WaterHub®
The WaterHub® at The University of Texas at Austin is an on-site wastewater reclamation and reuse system with a capacity rating of 1 million gallons per day (MGD). Designed to produce reclaimed water for use in cooling towers and boilers, it will be located along the southern face of Chilling Station (CS) 5.
The WaterHub will intercept domestic wastewater from a newly installed diversion manhole on the existing 36” sanitary sewer line near the intersection of East 21st Street and San Jacinto Boulevard. Wastewater will be conveyed to the WaterHub site via a force main installed within or adjacent to San Jacinto Boulevard. Reclaimed water from the site will then enter a distribution system of water piping to end-use locations including cooling towers and boilers within CS5, CS6, and the Hal C. Weaver Power Plant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the UT WaterHub®?
The UT WaterHub® is a state-of-the-art 9,600-square-foot water processing facility positioned to significantly mitigate risks associated with water scarcity and aging infrastructure, while enhancing the University's resiliency against extreme weather events, such as Winter Storm Uri and local drought conditions.
Is this the largest WaterHub® and what precedent exists for a facility of this type?
Yes, the UT WaterHub® is the largest facility at a university. Emory University created a similar facility in 2015 and other higher education institutions are contemplating implementing WaterHubs to leverage the same sustainability, resiliency, risk management, and academic benefits.
The University of Texas at Austin has historically prioritized utility water conservation with auxiliary water sources and has continued evaluating and expanding the use of reclaimed and recovered water.
How is the UT WaterHub® different from traditional wastewater treatment solutions?
The UT WaterHub® will utilize fewer chemicals, take up less space, and require fewer resources overall to treat water. The UT WaterHub® will incorporate natural processes like plant life and gravity for treatment, reducing reliance on energy-intensive machinery and chemicals.
What issues are being solved with the UT WaterHub®?
The proposed UT WaterHub® is a water reclamation and treatment facility that aims to transform the University’s water usage. The facility would reduce risk, increase efficiency, render long-term cost savings, and reduce environmental impacts while creating academic and research opportunities on campus.
What are the benefits delivered by the UT WaterHub®?
The UT WaterHub® is set to deliver a myriad of benefits, including a substantial reduction in campus water usage, decreased dependence on city water supplies, and enhanced utility infrastructure resilience. Here are some quick facts:
- 70% reduction in campus sewer capacity and reduction in sewer overflows.
- 40% reduction in campus potable water usage.
- Potential cost savings of millions of dollars in water purchases and water discharge fees
over the next several years.
Are opportunities available for students and researchers?
Yes, the facility will provide opportunities beneficial to a Tier-1 research institution, the UT WaterHub® will create academic and research opportunities for students and faculty to engage in sustainability, engineering, and operational projects. With the goal of creating a “living laboratory,” the facility will operate in a manner that supports academic enrichment while maintaining a high level of operational excellence.
Is the City of Austin aware of plans to build the UT WaterHub®?
Over the years, the University has collaborated with Austin Water on reclaimed water issues. The city is aware of the University’s plans to create the UT WaterHub® and has been a partner throughout the process. In addition to the UT WaterHub®, the campus will continue to purchase and use reclaimed water provided by Austin Water.
Where will the UT WaterHub® be located?
The facility will be located on campus south of Chilling Station #5, in the Engineering district, and be designed to integrate into the fabric of the campus.
What is the project's expected completion?
The project was approved in December 2024, with an anticipated completion date of late 2027.
How will the UT WaterHub® utilize plants?
The WaterHub® will incorporate plants, which will provide multiple benefits, including:
- Acting as natural filters: The selected plants will act as biological filters by removing contaminants.
- Providing habitat and microbes: Plant root systems will provide a habitat for beneficial microbes that will further break down pollutants within the water.
- Reducing energy consumption: Plants do not require power to function, unlike traditional treatment methods that rely on pumps and filters.
Why is water reclamation and reuse important for the Austin community? Does it alleviate water scarcity or improve conditions during droughts?
With the massive growth in the Austin area and enduring drought conditions over the last few decades, the state’s water resources are greatly stressed. Because water is so vital for both human needs and energy production, programs to reclaim and reuse water are vital to sustain our area and to provide for future growth. The UT WaterHub® will provide nonpotable water for campus energy needs and preserve potable water resources for the Austin and UT communities.
Is reclaimed water safe?
Reclaimed water is safe for non-drinking purposes. The water will be filtered and treated within the facility and delivered to the central energy system complex to help with campus heating and cooling needs.
What will the impacts be to surrounding buildings and neighborhoods?
The UT WaterHub® will leverage modern technology to ensure there are no noise or odor impacts. The facility will feature state-of-the-art carbon filtration odor control technologies that will be continuously monitored during operation.
Will the UT WaterHub® be open to the public for tours?
Yes, the UT WaterHub® will be constructed with a public-facing front greenhouse space, equipped with amenities to support tours and visitors.