Proceedings

Abstract
This paper outlines the scope of the current project by South East Water to design and build a demonstration scale pyrolysis plant based on a novel advanced fluidised bed technology following successful pilot plant trial in 2021 and the business case process to secure funding of $5.64M for the project. The scope is based on a capacity of 3,000 tonnes/year of dewatered biosolids at 50% dry solids converted to biochar with a fully automated process. The business case is based on four key pillars:

1. Net Present Value (NPV) comparing business as usual which is stockpiling and land application with biochar production and sale.
2. Emerging contaminant destruction particularly PFAS which is now the limiting factor for land application.
3. Net Zero consideration noting high scope one emissions with business-as-usual option and organisational net zero commitment.
4. Risk mitigation noting business as usual potentially compromised with regulatory change.

The positive business case drivers for all four key pillars secured project funding and the project
commenced design phase in October 2022.