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Sewage sludge pyrolysis

Sewage sludge pyrolysis project

Project highlights 

We're working to deliver the UK's first continuously operating, sludge-fed pyrolysis demonstration plant. It will be a new standard for resource recovery and water industry innovation.  

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Ofwat project funding

£6.2 million
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Collaboration

We're working with six partners
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Project status

Due to be completed September 2027

How the project works

Sewage sludge is a residual semi-solid by-product of the sewage treatment process. Pyrolysis involves heating the sludge to high temperatures in the absence of oxygen. It transforms it into valuable by-products; Biochar and Syngas.

Biochar is a form of charcoal that can be used to improve soil quality and sequester carbon. Syngas is used as a fuel and in the production of industrial chemicals.

This method will maximise the value of biosolids, and also:

  • Support a circular economy

  • Reduce the requirement for sludge to be recycled to agricultural land

  • Help destroy pollutants like PFAS

  • Contribute to net-zero carbon goals and environmental sustainability

  • Increase operational resilience 

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Timeline and collaboration

This £6.2 million project funded by Ofwat involves six partners. It's scheduled for completion in September 2027. The project exemplifies our commitment to innovation and leadership in sustainable wastewater treatment.