Illinois American Water has made significant strides in enhancing the quality of water in the Streator District by introducing a state-of-the-art ultraviolet treatment system. This new technology, part of a broader $7.5 million investment in the district’s water treatment infrastructure, aims to ensure a cleaner and more reliable water supply for its customers. The ultraviolet system alone, which became operational in 2023, cost $4.27 million and provides an additional layer of disinfection without using extra chemicals. By utilizing ultraviolet light, the system effectively neutralizes harmful microorganisms and bacteria present in the raw water sourced from the Vermilion River.
Holly Hunt, the Operations Superintendent at Illinois American Water, has emphasized the environmental benefits that come with this advanced treatment method. Unlike conventional disinfection techniques that rely heavily on chemical additives, the ultraviolet system offers a more eco-friendly solution by solely using light to purify water. Hunt highlights that this method not only ensures cleaner water but also reduces the chemical footprint of the water treatment process, aligning with broader environmental sustainability goals. The introduction of this cutting-edge technology underscores Illinois American Water’s commitment to delivering safe, high-quality water to its customers.
Meeting and Exceeding Federal Standards
Illinois American Water has implemented a significant advancement in the Streator District by introducing an advanced ultraviolet (UV) treatment system. This high-tech upgrade is part of a larger $7.5 million investment aimed at improving the district’s water treatment infrastructure, ensuring a more reliable and cleaner water supply for its customers. The UV system alone, which started operating in 2023, cost $4.27 million and adds an extra layer of disinfection without additional chemicals. By using UV light, this system effectively neutralizes harmful microorganisms and bacteria found in the untreated water from the Vermilion River.
Holly Hunt, the Operations Superintendent at Illinois American Water, pointed out the environmental benefits of this new treatment method. Unlike traditional disinfection processes that depend heavily on chemical additives, the UV system offers a greener solution using only light to purify water. Hunt emphasized that this method not only delivers cleaner water but also minimizes the chemical footprint of the treatment process, supporting broader environmental sustainability goals. The adoption of this cutting-edge technology highlights Illinois American Water’s dedication to providing safe, high-quality water to its customers.
