Published: Jul 10, 2014 | 09:00 AM

Biosolids Project Update Meeting Scheduled

A community open house to provide an update on the biosolids and energy recovery facility project is scheduled for Wednesday, July 16 at 6 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Irvine Ranch Water District Learning Center at the San Joaquin Marsh.

Project team members will be on hand to provide project updates and answer any questions you might have.

The Biosolids & Energy Recovery Facilities Project integrates a new state-of-the-art organics-handling system at the Michelson Water Recycling Plant (MWRP). This new system includes biosolids processing, biogas management, and energy recovery systems. The system makes efficient and sustainable use of locally generated renewable resources by creating a beneficial use of biosolids and biogases that are produced during the sewage treatment/recycling process.

Pile driving was completed in April. The basements of the three egg-shaped digesters are being constructed. The foundations for the digested sludge holding tanks have been poured. The contractor is installing forms and rebar for the basement walls of the solids handling building, installing electrical vaults, and installing six-inch storm drains and sanitation pipelines. At the centrate treatment facility, the concrete floor is being poured and soon the structure walls will be formed.

The project is expected to save IRWD customers an average of $10 million annually over the next 20 years. It is located at the existing MWRP, at 3512 Michelson Drive, Irvine, CA 92612 and is being constructed within a 4.6‐acre rectangular‐shaped site.

Check our website for periodic updates.