Securing resilient biosolids offtake capacity

By Anglian Water

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Anglian Water is seeking innovative, scalable and permitted supplier solutions to help strengthen biosolids offtake resilience and support the long-term performance of water recycling operations.

Biosolids play an important role in the circular economy. Created through the treatment of sludge from wastewater recycling, they are widely used as a source of organic matter and nutrients for agricultural land.

For Anglian Water, the ability to manage biosolids safely, sustainably and continuously is essential to maintaining resilient water recycling services. However, changes in regulation, seasonal restrictions on land spreading, population growth and increasing pressure on storage capacity mean the industry must explore additional onward routes and intermediary offtake options.

The challenge

During the winter and early spring period, reduced opportunities to move biosolids into receptive markets can place significant strain on storage assets. If storage capacity becomes constrained, the impact can move upstream into operational processes, affecting maintenance activity, wastewater treatment resilience and the ability to operate within environmental permits.

Doing nothing is not a sustainable option. Without additional routes, seasonal pressure could increase operational risk, place further stress on assets and limit flexibility in how biosolids are managed.  

The opportunity for suppliers

Anglian Water is looking to engage with suppliers who can provide alternative, resilient and commercially viable biosolids offtake solutions. This is an opportunity to unlock a valuable feedstock, diversify operations and help shape a more resilient model for biosolids management across the water sector.

Successful suppliers may be able to use biosolids within their own permitted processes, supported by appropriate commercial arrangements.  

We are interested in solutions that can provide additional capacity and flexibility, particularly during seasonal periods of increased pressure. Potential supplier solutions should be able to demonstrate that they are:

Scalable in a controlled way

Fully permitted to receive biosolids, including relevant EWC codes 19 06 06 and 19 02 06

Commercially viable and cost effective

At technology readiness level 8 or above, supporting smooth and practical rollout

Capable of operating within robust environmental, regulatory and assurance expectations

Get involved

We are keen to hear from suppliers who can offer practical, permitted and scalable biosolids offtake solutions. If your organisation has the capability, capacity or technology to support this challenge, we would love to hear from you via our opportunity form – click here to access.

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