In Prince George’s County, Maryland, the completion of WSSC Water’s $271 million Piscataway Bioenergy Facility marks a monumental step forward in the realm of sustainable water treatment. As the most ambitious project in WSSC Water’s 106-year history, this innovative facility leverages cutting-edge technology to transform wastewater biosolids into green energy. Developed by a design-build team comprising PC Construction, Stantec, and Hazen and Sawyer, the facility not only enhances the operational economics but also contributes significantly to environmental sustainability.
Pioneering Technology and Economic Impact
Advanced Thermal Hydrolysis Process
A significant feature of the Piscataway Bioenergy Facility is its advanced thermal hydrolysis process (THP). This process, one of only seven such implementations in the United States, is central to the facility’s ability to efficiently convert biosolids into biogas. The THP breaks down biosolids by applying high heat and pressure, resulting in a more biodegradable product. The biogas produced from this process will be utilized to power the facility’s combined heat and power engines. Additionally, any excess energy generated will be sold to Montgomery County, where it will be used to power part of the Ride On bus fleet, illustrating a smart intersection of waste management and renewable energy.
This advanced process not only ensures a robust conversion of waste into energy but also underscores the facility’s commitment to sustainability. The biogas generated reduces the emissions associated with conventional waste disposal methods, exemplifying a holistic approach to environmental stewardship. By integrating this technology, the Piscataway Bioenergy Facility sets a precedent for future projects seeking to combine operational efficiency with eco-friendly practices.
Economic Efficiency and Revenue Generation
Besides its technological advancements, the Piscataway Bioenergy Facility stands out for its economic efficiency. The facility is expected to generate an estimated $4 million annually in revenue, a substantial addition to WSSC Water’s financial portfolio. This revenue generation is complemented by an anticipated annual savings of approximately $3.4 million in operating costs for WSSC Water customers. These financial benefits are a direct result of the facility’s efficient processing capabilities and the sale of excess energy.
The project has been hailed by industry leaders as groundbreaking in terms of cost reduction and increased efficiency. Matt Cooke, president and CEO at PC Construction, emphasized the innovative use of thermal hydrolysis technology and praised the collaboration between WSSC Water and the design-build team. This collaboration was crucial in bringing the project to completion on budget and on schedule. The economic gains from this facility not only benefit WSSC Water and its customers but also contribute to the broader goal of making sustainable practices financially viable.
Community and Environmental Benefits
Job Creation and Local Economy
The construction phase of the Piscataway Bioenergy Facility played a significant role in community engagement and economic support. Hundreds of skilled workers were employed during this phase, reflecting the project’s substantial employment impact. The involvement of 34 Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) and Small Local Business Enterprises (SLBE) further underscores the facility’s commitment to inclusive economic growth. Nearly 150 jobs were created through MBE/SLBE collaborations, fostering local economic development and providing valuable opportunities for diverse businesses.
This emphasis on local employment and business engagement ensures that the benefits of the project extend beyond environmental gains. By supporting local enterprises and creating jobs, the facility has laid a solid foundation for sustained economic development in the region. The successful integration of MBEs and SLBEs also sets an example for future large-scale projects, highlighting the importance of inclusive and community-focused development practices.
Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability
The environmental benefits of the Piscataway Bioenergy Facility are manifold, starting with a notable reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The facility is designed to treat up to 92 dry tons of biosolids per day, significantly reducing the volume of waste disposed of in landfills. Additionally, the advanced processing methods employed result in the production of fewer and cleaner Class A biosolids. These biosolids can be marketed as a soil amendment, promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing the environmental footprint of waste disposal.
Joe Uglevich, senior vice president at Stantec, highlighted the collaborative efforts of engineers and scientists involved in the project, acknowledging the significant scale and impact. The culmination of these efforts is a facility that not only transforms waste into energy but also contributes to the overall goal of environmental sustainability. As the facility prepares to become fully operational by early 2025, it stands as a testament to what can be achieved through innovative technology, strategic collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability.
Conclusion
In Prince George’s County, Maryland, the completion of WSSC Water’s $271 million Piscataway Bioenergy Facility represents a significant advancement in sustainable water treatment. This facility, the most ambitious project in WSSC Water’s 106-year history, employs state-of-the-art technology to convert wastewater biosolids into green energy. The project was executed by a design-build team consisting of PC Construction, Stantec, and Hazen and Sawyer.
This innovative facility not only boosts the operational efficiency of water treatment processes but also underscores a major commitment to environmental sustainability. By transforming biosolids into renewable energy, the Piscataway Bioenergy Facility considerably reduces the environmental footprint of wastewater treatment. This project exemplifies how modern technology can be harnessed to address both economic and environmental challenges in water management. It stands as a testament to forward-thinking infrastructure development dedicated to creating a sustainable future for the community and beyond.
