Water filtration for electricity supplier roadworks

A new system to ensure wastewater from maintenance excavation is as clean as possible before being discharged has been introduced by Electricity distributor UK Power Networks.


The system, introduced on September 9, comprises a filter bag fitted to the end of pump hoses to collect sediment and up to 2.5l of oil from water removed from excavations. Once attached, the bag is simply placed on the grass verge or roadway so the filtered water can flow out the bottom of the bag and soak or drain away.

The high-visibility bags can be reused several times, says the company, as an indicator strip along the side shows if it is still viable. And the waste collected can be disposed of in general waste containers, providing it is not heavily contaminated.

UK Power Networks environment advisor James Nicholl said: “Every company has to consider the effect they have on the environment and this is very important to UK Power Networks as we work out in the community. In fact, two of our key priorities are to be a respected corporate citizen and sustainably cost efficient. This innovation fits in with both those aims.

“For people living and working in the area, the filter bag helps to reduce the amount of silt that normally ends up on the road surface.”

Will Parsons

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