The happiest water in the world
In Vaasa, water travels a carefully monitored route from the Kyrönjoki River to homes and back to the sea, benefiting the environment along the way. Fresh tap water, efficient wastewater treatment, and energy recovered from water all demonstrate a responsible approach, making sure every drop is put to the best possible use.
Vaasa’s tap water originates from the Kyrönjoki River, from where it passes through several purification stages to the Pilvilampi Waterworks. During the purification process there, the water is treated to meet the strictest quality standards, ensuring it is fresh, clean, and safe to drink.
When you use water at home, it continues its journey through the sewer system to the Pått Wastewater Treatment Plant. At Pått, wastewater is treated in several stages: first, solid debris and sand are removed; next, the water undergoes biological treatment with bacteria; and finally, it is filtered.
The process pays special attention to ensuring the water is as clean as possible before it is returned to the sea, resulting in water that can be even purer than the original raw water. The wastewater treatment plant operates under strict environmental standards, and the quality of the water is continuously monitored. When less water is used, the amount of wastewater reaching the Pått Plant decreases. As the flow of wastewater decreases, water remains longer in the tanks, allowing for more effective biological purification at the plant.
Heat recovery – district heating from wastewater
Environmental responsibility is also reflected in energy production: before the treated wastewater is released into the sea, heat is recovered at Vaasan Sähkö’s heat pump facility. This generates district heating enough to warm around 2,000 detached houses in Vaasa.
‘Some of the heat in your home may come from the water you’ve used yourself!’
In addition, the sludge produced during the treatment process is used to generate biogas, which serves as fuel for the city’s Lifti buses and as a soil conditioner in the municipal gardens. This way, water circulates responsibly and supports sustainable development.
Environmental responsibility and high quality have been cornerstones of our operations for decades. In Vaasa, our aim is to ensure that the happiest water in the world is available to everyone, while conserving both energy and the environment.