Secrets of Performing Successfully in both the Municipal and Oil & Gas Water/Wastewater Sectors

Abstract:

Traditionally, professionals and companies in the water & wastewater industry have
focused on either the municipal or industrial sectors, and considered it difficult to be
successful in both. This paper describes some of the key factors that can ensure
success in both sectors, focusing on the oil & gas and municipal water/wastewater
sectors.

There are common myths that have been reinforced in the industry, suggesting barriers
to success in both sectors, and differences in engineering and project execution
practices. We explore these with focus on technology applicability and project delivery,
identifying key lessons from one sector useful in the other. Examples include:

  • Technical myth – Biological treatment isn’t effective for high strength wastewater
    in oil and gas;
  • Strategic myth – The municipal sector is more competitive than oil and gas
    sector; and
  • Execution myth – Modular equipment, favoured in the oil and gas sector, isn’t as
    applicable for municipal applications.

Authors:

MacDonald, A.J., St-Georges, N.

Year:

2016