This complex water project involves the modification of the existing Michelson Water Recycling Plant (MWRP). As the general contractor, Balfour Beatty is on-site to add a Biosolids Handling Component to the MWRP that will integrate a new state-of-the-art and proven residuals-handling system including biosolids processing, biogas management and energy recovery systems. 

This project is expanding the Irvine Ranch Water District’s total resource reuse management program. It will enable the client to make efficient and sustainable use of locally-generated renewable resources by allowing for beneficial use of biosolids and biogases produced during the wastewater treatment and recycling process. This project supports green and sustainable business practices while at the same time provides a mechanism for effective cost management of wastewater services for the client’s customers. 

As part of this project, Balfour Beatty is building a digester complex and a solids handling building on driven piles to support the existing wastewater treatment plant, which takes wastewater from the existing plant after secondary treatment, and further treats it with digesters that ultimately power micro-turbines for energy use. The sludge is dried into pellet form for off-haul, saving the district the cost of off-hauling sludge. The district will also benefit by offering surrounding wastewater agencies a closer place to haul their sludge for drying at a reduced cost.