Client
THABAT Construction Co. for National Water Company (NWC)
Location
Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia
Capacity
200,000 m³/d
Advanced Sludge Treatment and Energy Recovery System Supporting Sustainable Water Reuse in Al Kharj
The Al Kharj Road III Waste Water Treatment Plant represents a major step forward in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to enhance sustainable water reuse and energy recovery. Delivered as part of a larger wastewater treatment complex for the City of Al Kharj, this system integrates a high-efficiency sludge treatment plant with an advanced waste water treatment plant to support irrigation needs, reduce energy consumption, and promote environmental protection.
Wastewater Treatment and Sludge Digestion System Driving Circular Resource Utilisation
With a total treatment capacity of 200 MLD, the facility combines mechanical, biological, tertiary, and disinfection processes for robust municipal wastewater treatment. A key highlight is the anaerobic sludge digestion system, which converts organic sludge into renewable biogas, enabling power and heat generation. This integration significantly reduces reliance on external power sources and enhances long-term operational sustainability.
High-Performance Sludge Treatment Plant with Biogas Recovery
The sludge treatment plant features sludge thickening, mechanical dewatering, and four large anaerobic digesters of 8,525 m³ each. Through Combined Heat and Power Plants (CHPPs), the system generates both thermal and electrical energy, achieving an impressive 55% energy recovery rate. This sludge digestion system positions the plant among the region’s most sustainable wastewater treatment facilities.
A Model Project Advancing Saudi Arabia’s Climate and Sustainability Vision
By integrating wastewater treatment with a modern sludge digestion system, the Al Kharj Road III project reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental sustainability and efficient resource utilisation. It stands as a benchmark for wastewater treatment companies working to deliver climate-aligned solutions across the Middle East.
Comprehensive Scope for the Al Kharj Road III Wastewater Treatment Plant
The project scope includes engineering and design services, mechanical equipment supply, installation supervision, testing, commissioning, and operational training. WABAG’s end-to-end capability ensures seamless integration of wastewater treatment and sludge digestion operations.
Wastewater Treatment Process Delivering High-Quality Effluent
The waste water treatment plant employs a complete mechanical-biological treatment system supported by:
- Activated sludge treatment
- Secondary clarification
- Tertiary disc filtration with disinfection
- Waste air treatment
These processes ensure reliable performance and treated water suitable for agricultural irrigation.
Sludge Digestion System Enabling Renewable Energy Generation
The sludge treatment and digestion system includes:
- Sludge thickening
- Four anaerobic digesters (8,525 m³ each)
- Biogas utilisation through 2 × 1,400 kWh electrical generation units
- 2 × 1,700 kWh thermal generation
- Sludge dewatering and storage
This closed-loop system significantly reduces carbon footprint and achieves energy-neutral operations.
Supporting Sustainable Water Reuse for Agriculture
The treated water from this wastewater treatment facility supports large-scale agricultural irrigation in the Al Kharj region. By ensuring stable, high-quality treated water, the plant contributes to long-term resource security.
A Leading Example Among Wastewater Treatment Companies
WABAG’s successful execution of this project highlights its expertise in designing and delivering integrated wastewater treatment and sludge digestion systems. This facility strengthens WABAG’s position among the global leaders in sustainable water and sludge-to-energy solutions.