Pittsburgh has a green energy. For it’s known for their commitment to a sustainable future. For it has become a hub for innovative solutions and green technologies. The city is tackling challenges. That’s such as reducing energy usage, addressing stormwater issues caused by aging infrastructure. Moreover and minimizing the environmental impacts of shale gas development. So in this article, we will explore the efforts being made in Pittsburgh. Especially to promote sustainability and showcase some of the pioneering startups. For they are driving this green evolution.
Citywide First Green Plan: Managing Stormwater and Flooding
Like many older cities with aging infrastructure. Yet Pittsburgh faces the challenge of combined stormwater runoff. One which also often leads to spillage into its three rivers. To manage this issue effectively, the City of Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) have come together. For they released the Citywide Green First Plan. This plan also outlines the city’s commitment to using innovative, cost-effective, and green infrastructure. For it approaches to mitigate local street flooding and sewer backups. Those now caused by heavy rainstorms.
The proposed management practices include the implementation of rain gardens. Also tree plantings and water detention basins Finally stream restoration, and pervious pavement. These solutions mimic natural processes. Thereby allowing the city to slow down. Then it can also capture rainwater efficiently. By adopting such practices, Pittsburgh aims to reduce its environmental impact. Because stormwater runoff needs to improve its overall water management system.
Pittsburgh Green Energy Companies
WindStax: Revolutionizing Wind Power with Vertical Turbines
One of the startups at the forefront of Pittsburgh’s green energy revolution is WindStax. This innovative company specializes in building scalable, vertical axis wind turbines. Those that can operate effectively in urban environments. WindStax manufactures the largest vertical turbines in the United States. It’s capable of generating electricity with wind speeds as low as five miles per hour.
What sets WindStax apart is its commitment to sustainability and adaptability. The company has pioneered linkages to microgrids and batteries. Thereby allowing customers to transition seamlessly. Especially between alternative energy sources. This technology, known as ZeroFirst™. For it enables a smooth supply and demand cycle. That’s while still providing public power as a fallback option. Furthermore, WindStax turbines are portable, avian-friendly, and silent, making them ideal for urban settings and promoting Pittsburgh green energy future.
Epiphany Water Solutions: Treating Produced Water at Drilling Sites
As Pennsylvania experiences a shale development boom, Epiphany Water Solutions is addressing the environmental challenges associated with natural gas drilling. The company has developed a groundbreaking process for treating produced water directly at drilling sites. This innovation reduces the need for transporting produced water, which often contains high levels of salts and trace amounts of metals.
The distillation process employed by Epiphany Water Solutions leaves the water cleaner than tap water, making it safe for return to the environment. Additionally, the crystallized salt and remaining material after distillation can be repurposed for beneficial uses, resulting in a waste reduction of up to 97 percent of the original volume. By significantly reducing transportation costs and air emissions, Epiphany’s solution is paving the way for a more sustainable approach to shale gas development.
Thar Energy: Sustainable Geothermal Heating and Cooling Solutions
Thar Energy, LLC is revolutionizing geothermal heating and cooling systems. That’s with its sustainable and energy-efficient solutions. Unlike traditional commercial geothermal systems, Thar Energy’s technology utilizes recycled carbon dioxide (R744) as a natural refrigerant. This unique approach, combined with a simpler and more efficient direct exchange geothermal design. It also sets Thar Energy apart from its competitors.
The use of recycled carbon dioxide as a refrigerant allows for the design of smaller diameter tubing. Thereby reducing upfront installation costs. Historically, the high installation expenses have hindered the widespread adoption of geothermal technology. Thar Energy’s system not only offers enhanced energy efficiency. However, it also reduces the environmental footprint associated with heating and cooling. With this innovative solution, Thar Energy is leading the way. Especially towards a more sustainable HVAC system.
Pittsburgh’s Commitment to the 2030 District
Pittsburgh continues to lead North America in urban properties committed to significant reductions in CO2 emissions. Also energy usage and water consumption. This commitment is exemplified by the 2030 Districts initiative. For that’s with Pittsburgh’s 2030 District at the forefront. The recently released 2016 Progress Report highlights the significant achievements of property partners. Especially in cutting energy costs through innovative lighting, heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.
In 2016 alone, property partners managed to save $19 million in energy costs. Thereby bringing the total savings since initial reporting to an impressive $53 million. Participants also increased total energy avoided by 13 percent. This is resulting in a savings of 982 million kBtu. That which is equivalent to the CO2 emissions of driving a car 271 million miles. With 491 participating properties, Pittsburgh leads all 17 established 2030 Districts. Most noteworthy and with committed square footage.
Pittsburgh Green Story: A Resource for Sustainability
For more information, visit Pittsburgh Green Innovators.
Pittsburgh Green Innovators, Inc. builds upon its mission and foundational programs. Especially to provide sustainable economic development services to communities in need. For that’s primarily through social entrepreneurship.
Pittsburgh Green Innovators, Inc. is also managed by Pittsburgh Gateways Corporation.
Stay updated on the emerging stories and be part of the movement towards a greener future.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh’s commitment to sustainability is driving the development of innovative solutions and green technologies. From managing stormwater and flooding to revolutionizing wind power. In addition, treating produced water. Finally, and enhancing geothermal systems. For the city is at the forefront of the green evolution. With initiatives like the Citywide Green First Plan and the 2030 District. Because Pittsburgh is setting an example for other cities around the world. By embracing sustainable practices, Pittsburgh is not only reducing its environmental impact but also inspiring others to follow suit. Through collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for a greener future. Because Pittsburgh is leading the way towards a more sustainable world.
