Client
Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB)
Location
Kodungaiyur, Chennai, India
Capacity
110,000 m³/day
Sustainable Sludge Treatment and Energy Recovery at the 110 MLD Kodungaiyur STP in Chennai
The 110 MLD Kodungaiyur sewage treatment facility in Chennai demonstrates how modern sludge digestion systems can transform urban wastewater management. Designed for the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB), the plant integrates anaerobic digestion, biogas utilisation, and advanced sludge processing to deliver energy-efficient wastewater treatment. As a key wastewater treatment plant serving North Chennai, the facility plays an important role in reducing pollution and improving overall sanitation for the region.
Energy-Efficient Wastewater Treatment Strengthened by Anaerobic Sludge Digestion
At the heart of the Kodungaiyur wastewater treatment plant is a robust sludge digestion system that supports 98% energy self-sufficiency. The system includes two anaerobic digesters, biogas engines, sludge thickening, and advanced dewatering systems. By converting sludge into biogas, the wastewater treatment plant reduces operational costs, lowers grid dependency, and improves plant sustainability—positioning it among India’s most innovative wastewater treatment facilities.
Sludge Treatment Facility Integrating Wastewater Treatment and Green Energy Generation
The sludge treatment facility uses the conventional activated sludge process with secondary clarification, followed by anaerobic digestion for enhanced stabilisation. Biogas generated from digestion is used to power a 1 MW energy system, contributing significantly to energy neutrality. With sludge dewatering through centrifuges and composting of stabilised biosolids, the plant ensures safe disposal and beneficial reuse, reflecting global best practices for sludge treatment systems.
A Benchmark for Sludge-to-Energy Solutions in Municipal Wastewater Treatment
By integrating a sludge digestion system, renewable energy generation, and high-efficiency wastewater treatment technologies, the Kodungaiyur STP stands out as a model for sustainable municipal wastewater management. Its sludge management process aligns with global efforts toward energy-positive wastewater treatment and reinforces WABAG’s reputation among leading wastewater treatment companies delivering circular, resilient, and future-ready sanitation infrastructure.dge management infrastructure across India.
Scope of Work for the Kodungaiyur Wastewater Treatment and Sludge Digestion System
WABAG executed the project on a DBO basis, covering design, engineering, construction, commissioning, and a 10-year operations and maintenance period. The scope included mechanical pre-treatment facilities, aeration systems, sludge digestion units, biogas engines, dewatering equipment, and a maturation pond to ensure complete sludge stabilisation.
Integrated Wastewater and Sludge Treatment Process
The wastewater treatment line uses the activated sludge process with secondary clarification, ensuring efficient biological nutrient removal. This is complemented by sludge thickening, anaerobic digestion, biogas utilisation, and advanced dewatering—delivering a stable, efficient, and environmentally compliant treatment process.
Sludge Digestion System Supporting Energy Recovery
The sludge digestion system consists of two 6,075 m³ digesters designed to stabilise sludge and maximise biogas production. The biogas is processed and used to run a 1 MW biogas engine, contributing significantly to plant self-sufficiency while reducing carbon emissions. Additional processes include sludge centrifuge dewatering and composting of stabilised solids.
Environmental and Urban Sustainability Impact
By generating renewable energy, the facility reduces dependence on the state power grid and contributes to Chennai’s sustainability goals. The treated wastewater meets stringent discharge standards, reducing environmental impact. Stabilised sludge converted into compost supports circular economy principles and reduces waste disposal pressures.
Leadership in Wastewater Treatment and Sludge Digestion Solutions
The Kodungaiyur plant illustrates how odern sludge digestion systems and integrated wastewater treatment technologies can significantly reduce operational costs and environmental impact. As one of the region’s pioneering sludge-to-energy facilities, it reinforces WABAG’s leadership in delivering sustainable wastewater treatment and sludge management infrastructure across India.