Double Award Delight for
New Modern Apprentice

Zac Mooney, Modern Apprentice, has clinched Scottish and UK awards for his innovative work and presentation on hydropower.

Inspired by an industry-leading hydro-electric scheme in Falkirk, Zac Mooney, Scottish Water Modern Apprentice, presented at this year’s Pipeline Industries Guild (Professional Development Network Competitions for industry professionals under the age of 35).  At just 22 years of age, and competing against much more experienced professionals, Zac won the Scottish award before going on to double his success at the UK-wide event held in Coventry.

Addressing an audience of over 100 industry experts, Zac described how a turbine installed on a critical clean water main at Carron Valve Chamber will provide nearly 20% of the energy needs for the nearby Dalderse Waste Water Treatment Works.

The innovative project, which is being developed by Scottish Water Horizons, is set to be one of the first in Europe where a clean water supply powers a waste water site.

Early career success

Expressing his gratitude, Zac said: “I am thankful to have been given the opportunity to showcase my hydropower learnings so early in my Scottish Water career.

“We are committed to becoming a net zero organization by 2040, and Scottish Water Horizons is delivering many projects in line with this goal. My work has a strong focus on the environment which is something I am very passionate about.

“The support from Horizons has been instrumental in my development and has given me the confidence to compete at such a high level at Pipeline Industries Guild Competitions.”

Zac Mooney’s winning presentation on Harnessing the Hydropower in Pipes was a creative presentation of a circular solution, harnessing energy from one process to utilise in another. It was excellent and a worthy winner.

Rachel Bridge, Chair of the Pipeline Industries Guild

John Lenehan, Horizons Project Manager and mentor to Zac, highlighted Zac’s unique approach:

“Zac distinguished himself by using a small pressure reducing valve as a prop to help demonstrate the power-generating potential in our pipes and flows. His winning presentation attracted significant interest from attendees, who were impressed by the carbon reduction and cost saving aspects.

“Zac has had a busy first nine months with us but has managed everything really well. He has taken all these new experiences which come from a Scottish Water apprenticeship in his stride, and he has done brilliantly.”

Leading industry recognition

The publicly owned utility has 175 Modern Apprentices across the business with Zac’s achievements in Horizons highlighting the varied nature of opportunities available through its apprenticeship programmes.

Rachel Bridge, Chair of the Pipeline Industries Guild, commented:

“The Guild is passionate about nurturing talent and our Professional Development Network Presentation Competition provides a platform for individuals to showcase innovation, share best practice and learn together.  I was delighted to attend and sit on the panel of judges for the final rounds of this year’s competition. Zac Mooney’s winning presentation on Harnessing the Hydropower in Pipes was a creative presentation of a circular solution, harnessing energy from one process to utilise in another. It was excellent and a worthy winner.

“Zac presented confidently and interactive elements to engage the audience. We are delighted that Zac’s idea has now been shared amongst the pipeline operators in the UK and look forward to seeing this idea progress across the water networks and wider pipeline industry sectors.”

Find out more about Scottish Water’s Modern Apprentice Programme