Biosolids Digesters Facilities
Overview
UPDATE
Changes to the Biosolids' Biogas Project
Biogas is a byproduct of the biosolids digestion treatment process. Our original plans for the Biosolids Digester Facilities Project included reusing 100% of the biogas, however we recently made changes to how the biogas will be used. The new plan will convert the biogas to renewable natural gas for injection into PG&E's existing gas pipeline. For more information, read frequently asked questions for the Biogas Utilization Project.
As part of the Sewer System Improvement Program (SSIP), we are investing over $3 billion to upgrade and modernize the aging Southeast Treatment Plant to reduce odors, be better prepared for earthquakes and sea level rise, and ensure operational redundancy and efficiency. When complete, the city’s largest wastewater pollution treatment plant will be transformed into a resource recovery facility that smells better, looks better and works better.
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Project Background
The Biosolids Digester Facilities Project (BDFP) will replace and relocate the outdated existing solids treatment facilities with more reliable, efficient, and modern technologies and facilities. The new facilities will produce a higher quality biosolids, capture and treat odors more effectively, and maximize biogas utilization and energy recovery. In addition, the project will locate the digesters farther away from existing residences and make visual improvements in and around the Southeast Treatment Plant.
What are Biosolids?
Biosolids are the nutrient-rich soil-like product of the wastewater treatment process that can be used as a synthetic fertilizer-replacement and soil amendment.
Project Benefits
This project will provide significant operational and functional improvements to this critical facility:
- Produce higher quality, Class A biosolids that have greatly expanded beneficial uses
- Reduce odors from the treatment process
- Improve the ability for these critical facilities to withstand a 7.8 earthquake on the San Andreas fault, and a 7.1 earthquake on the Hayward fault
- Ensure that the Southeast Treatment Plant can accommodate or adapt to the expected sea level rise of 36 inches by 2100
The SFPUC is also leveraging these investments to provide opportunities to local residents and businesses who are most impacted by having this facility in the neighborhood:
- Provide a more attractive look to the facilities to better fit in with the neighborhood
- Fund local public art guided by the Bayview Arts Master Plan
- Support local hire and local contracting goals and requirements
Funding for this project has been provided in full or in part through an agreement with the State Water Resources Control Board. California’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund is capitalized through a variety of funding sources, including grants from the United States Environmental Protection Agency and state bond proceeds. The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the foregoing, nor does mention of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.
Office Hours and Contact Information
We want to hear from you. Use any of the below methods to connect with our team!
Construction Hotline: (415) 551-4737
Email: ssip@sfwater.org
After hours: Call 311 -
What to Expect During Construction
- Noise: Noise, vibration, dust, and traffic impacts in the work zone
- Access: Residents near the work zone will maintain access to their homes and businesses
- Construction Hours: Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. with occasional weekend work from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Residents and businesses will be notified in advance when weekend, nighttime, holiday or 24-hour work is required
- Transportation Impacts: Streets will be open for traffic throughout construction, with optional detour routes available. Delays should be expected. No impacts to Muni service are expected at this time
- Sewer Service: No interruptions to sewer service will occur during construction
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Project Materials
Headworks Project Page
The Biosolids Digester Facilities Project is being constructed at the Southeast Treatment Plant along with the New Headworks Facility. To learn more visit, sfpuc.gov/headworks
Combined, both projects will upgrade and modernize these aging facilities with more reliable, efficient, and modern technologies and facilities.