One of the largest Thermal Hydrolysis Facilities in the world
We supported United Utilities in developing the Sludge Balanced Asset Programme at Davyhulme Wastewater Treatment Works in Manchester, UK. This innovative solution produced a sustainable, low-carbon process that increased United Utilities’ options for biosolids disposal routes, while also maximising energy recovery from biosolids and minimising project carbon footprint. It is one of the largest Thermal Hydrolysis Facilities in the world, converting sewage sludge into renewable electricity using the thermal hydrolysis process.
Enabling works include the upgrade of sludge screening and loading equipment at seven satellite sites as well as the transport of dewatered sludge from satellite sites to a purpose-built 91,000 tDS/year processing centre. Advanced digestion by thermal hydrolysis to meet enhanced (Class A) product for disposal to agricultural land is also provided, as is co-generation, with biogas cleaning for enhanced CHP engine efficiency. Up to 32,000 tDS/year of the sludge recycled to land as a Class A cake product, and the remainder of sludge is pumped to the MVPC for EFW generation.
Our team’s key aim was to determine the most cost-effective solution that would satisfy the expectations of neighbouring residents and businesses, while not exposing the client to undue levels of risk. It was also our focus to construct the plant with minimal disruption to site operations and within a very tight schedule.
We assessed the greenhouse gas emissions associated with construction and future operation of two alternative sludge processing options for Lancashire, UK. The total carbon generation was calculated using Defra’s guidance on shadow pricing, including carbon from chemical production and transport, emissions associated with energy use, and transport of sludge and waste. This was used to support a revised proposal to the economic regulator to change the solution from raw energy from waste treatment to advanced sludge digestion, which has a lower carbon footprint.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
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- United Utilities
Cath Schefer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer – Global
I’m passionate about bringing the combined knowledge and expertise of Stantec’s people across the world to deliver great projects for our clients and communities.
Liz Chapman, Director of Technical Design Services
Innovation isn’t just about thinking up new ideas; it can also be about bringing ideas from elsewhere and adopting them.
Scott Jackson, Regional Director, Water
I have an open and honest leadership style which helps my team deliver innovative project solutions for our clients and communities.
Craig McMaster, Head of Programme Management and Integrator Services
Supporting our clients create high performing enterprise structures for the efficient delivery of major capital investments is the foundation of my role at Stantec.
John Ord, Business Director, Energy & Resources
The UK energy business is changing rapidly. We assist our clients across the industry to shape and improve transitional and future energy projects.
Timothy Williams, Strategic Growth & Business Development Director, Water
Communication at all levels, within and between organisations, is paramount to business success.
Jamie Woods, Regional Director, Water Cycle
Collaboration has always been at the heart of my approach – not just in technical delivery, but also business leadership.
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