PC Construction, Stantec, and Hazen and Sawyer have completed WSSC Water’s $271 million Piscataway Bioenergy Facility in Prince George’s County, Maryland. This state-of-the-art facility will transform biosolids into renewable energy, generating significant cost savings and revenue for WSSC Water.
Recognized as the largest and most advanced project in WSSC Water’s 106-year history, the facility incorporates leading-edge thermal hydrolysis process (THP) technology, one of only seven such implementations in the U.S. This technology boosts efficiency, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and lowers operational costs.
Expected to be fully operational by early 2025, the Piscataway Bioenergy Facility is anticipated to yield approximately $4 million in annual revenue and save WSSC Water customers $3.4 million each year. It will also substantially reduce the utility’s carbon footprint, aligning with Maryland’s sustainability targets.
“This project is groundbreaking, leveraging thermal hydrolysis technology to reduce costs while enhancing efficiency and sustainability,” said Matt Cooke, CEO of PC Construction. “I am deeply appreciative of the exceptional team behind this project—from our partnership with WSSC Water to the skilled workers and over 120 subcontractors and vendors who contributed their expertise every day.”
The facility’s design enables it to process biosolids from all six of WSSC Water’s resource recovery facilities, converting them into biogas that fuels combined heat and power engines to partially power the facility. Excess energy will be sold to Montgomery County to support its Ride On bus fleet, demonstrating the project’s broader impact. Additionally, the facility will produce Class A biosolids, a pathogen-free byproduct ideal for use as a soil amendment, enhancing its environmental and agricultural benefits.
The project reflects the collaborative efforts of PC Construction, Stantec, and Hazen and Sawyer, supported by contributions from over 120 subcontractors and hundreds of skilled workers.
“This has been an ambitious endeavor from the outset,” noted Joe Uglevich, Senior Vice President and Director of Water Delivery at Stantec. “Reaching this milestone is incredibly rewarding for the entire team, and we’re honored to bring WSSC Water’s vision to life.”
The design and construction phases prioritized inclusivity, with contributions from 34 Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) and Small Local Business Enterprises (SLBE), creating nearly 150 jobs.
Completed on budget and on schedule, the Piscataway Bioenergy Facility can treat up to 92 dry tons of biosolids daily, positioning WSSC Water as a leader in environmentally sustainable infrastructure.