To meet its sustainability and efficiency targets, one of the largest craft brewers in the United States needed a new wastewater pretreatment facility that would minimize solids requiring off-site disposal and maximize waste as a source of renewable energy. Starting with greenfield site development, we worked closely with the brewer to design and construct this system, which was the first to generate biogas from brewer’s yeast in the USA. We identified and evaluated sites as well as advised on space considerations for buildings, waste-to-energy system, roof-mounted solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations, and stormwater reuse program, ultimately allowing this facility to operate as a microgrid.
Our custom two-phase anaerobic sequencing batch reactor (ASBR) system biologically treats the high-solids waste streams (spent grains and yeast). A combined heat and power (CHP) system utilizes the biogas. As part of a tourism site, the system’s design minimizes odors. Prior to full-scale implementation, we piloted the system to scale and advanced the process design for optimal performance and efficiency.
The biogas is treated and used in two microturbines that generate 400kW for use in the brewery. Excess biogas is used in a boiler to provide heat for the digester. This project qualified for renewable energy funding from several sources and achieved LEED® Platinum certification. This facility also achieved designation as a Platinum Zero Waste Facility from the US Zero Waste Business Council.
