Biosolids Processing

The SWA’s Biosolids Processing Facility (BPF), which opened in 2009, was developed to manage biosolids generated by wastewater treatment plants across Palm Beach County. The BPF is owned by the SWA and operated by a private contractor. The facility accepts up to 600 tons of biosolids per day from multiple regional partners and uses high-efficiency dryers to convert this material into a Class A, pelletized fertilizer product. By using landfill gas as its primary fuel source, the facility significantly reduces operational costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

The SWA’s Biosolids Processing Facility (BPF), which opened in 2009, was developed to manage biosolids generated by wastewater treatment plants across Palm Beach County. The BPF is owned by the SWA and operated by a private contractor. The facility accepts up to 600 tons of biosolids per day from multiple regional partners and uses high-efficiency dryers to convert this material into a Class A, pelletized fertilizer product. By using landfill gas as its primary fuel source, the facility significantly reduces operational costs and greenhouse gas emissions. How It Works Biosolids are delivered to the facility and fed into thermal dryers, where they're exposed to high temperatures that eliminate pathogens and reduce moisture content. The dried material is then formed into small pellets, measuring 1 to 4 millimeters, suitable for agricultural and landscaping use. This process transforms what was once considered a waste byproduct into a valuable resource. The facility operates continuously, handling biosolids from nearly every municipal wastewater utility in the county. Environmental Features Landfill gas utilization: The BPF uses landfill gas, supplemented by a small amount of natural gas, to fuel its drying system. This lowers greenhouse gas emissions and saves more than $30 per ton in energy costs. Odor control: A sophisticated air pollution control system captures and neutralizes odor-causing vapors during the drying process. BPF Air Handling System BPF Dryer Process and Solids Handling Regional Partners City of Boca Raton Wastewater Treatment Plant East Central Regional Water Reclamation Facility (operated by the City of West Palm Beach) Loxahatchee River District Wastewater Treatment Facility Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department Southern Region Water Reclamation Facility Seacoast Utility Authority Wastewater Treatment Plant South Central Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant