“Hoffselva is perfect for this type of demonstration”

Dr. ing. Herman Helness is Research Manager at the research institute SINTEF and kindly answered some questions about the DESSIN demo site in Hoffselva, Norway.

1. What is being tested at your test site for DESSIN?

We are testing two innovative solutions for improving water quality in Hoffselva by local treatment of combined sewer overflows: A lamella settler and a high rate filter. The solutions will be automated and in communication with a centralised system to ease operation. The innovations will aid in achieving the goals of the WFD.

2. How is it being tested?

The two SMEs delivering the solutions will install and operate demonstration units for a period of 12 to 24 months. During this period, several tests will be performed to document the performance.

3. Why do you participate in a project like DESSIN?

For a research institute like SINTEF, participation in EU projects – both on demonstration and R&D&I activities/projects – is a good way of introducing and further developing our ideas and knowledge in collaboration with end users, industry and other researchers.

4. What makes your test site perfect for a project like DESSIN?

Hoffselva is perfect for this type of demonstration because it is a well defined catchment with different environments and conditions of existing infrastructure. It is owned by Oslo VAV which are dedicated to improving their services and can participate as an active and resourceful end user partner.