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The transition to decentralized renewable energy systems faces challenges from the temporal availability and gaps of various sources. This study addresses this issue by designing a hybrid off-grid system for the Ariel University Dormitory WWTP, a 500 m³ /day biofilter facility. The system integrates solar energy, pumped storage, and hydroelectric generation while enabling reclaimed water use for gravity-fed irrigation. After optimizing the operational algorithm, the system functions autonomously most of the year. However, insufficient solar insolation during January-February prevents adequate pumping to hydraulic storage, which suggests that another source of renewable energy, such as wind or biomass-based, should be added to the solar array. The research demonstrates the feasibility of small-scale hybrid renewable systems for autonomous critical infrastructure while identifying seasonal limitations. The particular application for a biofilter-type WWTP has proved successful as it can endure several hours with no energy supply. • A biofilter-type wastewater treatment facility can be energetically autonomous • In summer, the hydroelectric system’s elevated reservoir can support irrigation • Hybrid renewable energy supply is recommended to ensure a continuous operation during high winter
Anker et al. (Wed,) studied this question.