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Aerial view of an organics to energy plant surrounded by trees.Aerial view of an organics to energy plant surrounded by trees.

From organic waste to energy independence  

A Massachusetts utility has achieved energy independence by converting food waste and biosolids into renewable power, driving cost savings and environmental benefits. 

Client

Greater Lawrence Sanitary District

Location

North Andover, Massachusetts

Connect with an expert

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Benjamin Mosher PE, BCEE, ENV SP
Senior Environmental Engineer

Advancing energy independence through innovation 

The Greater Lawrence Sanitary District (GLSD) has expanded its system to co-digest biosolids with organic food waste, converting them into renewable biogas. This locally generated clean energy powers the plant and supports grid independence, positioning GLSD as a regional leader in sustainable, net-zero wastewater treatment.   

Boosting biogas production

Co-digestion increased biogas output by nearly 250%, fueling combined heat and power engines that meet plant energy needs. 

Generating clean, renewable power 

When power gen­er­a­tion ex­ceeds plant de­mand, extra power is re­turned to the grid to off­set costs for the dis­trict. 

Leveraging public-private partnerships 

A hybrid design-build delivery model balanced public oversight with private innovation for efficient, streamlined operations. 

Securing statewide collaboration 

Supported by Massachusetts agencies and private utilities, the project set a precedent for clean energy partnerships. 

With the organics to energy project, GLSD is redefining sustainable wastewater management. The facility’s expanded digestion and combined heat and power systems enable significant cost savings, estimated at $2.5 million annually, while meeting stringent air quality standards.  

“GLSD is focused on innovation and is always thinking about what the next development will be,” says project manager Benjamin Mosher, PE, BCEE. “They’re out in front, finding things that make both environmental and economic sense.” 

Curious to learn more?

Connect with an expert to find out how we delivered this project.

mosher_benjamin.jpg

Benjamin Mosher

Senior Environmental Engineer

Ben is a senior project manager with experience in a wide variety of large-scale environmental infrastructure studies and designs.

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