HARRISBURG – A loan of more than $36.6 million will support a major energy savings project in Altoona, according to Senator Judy Ward (R-30) and Representative Lou Schmitt (R-79).
The funding will help the Altoona Water Authority upgrade its biosolids storage system to improve efficiency and save energy directly at wastewater treatment plants. Current storage systems are inefficient and have frequent maintenance issues that create a high risk of system failure.
The project includes the installation of a new digester and biosolids dryer, along with the replacement of other infrastructure.
“With fewer farms willing to accept biosolids and weather issues creating even greater handling challenges, something had to be done to deal with storage issues to prevent serious impacts on community health,” Ward said. “I appreciate the fact that this funding will help solve these problems and ensure the new storage system will provide a long-term solution.”
“This project is a win-win for our community and the environment. The new digester will create new energy for the plant using waste products, saving money on energy costs in an environmentally-friendly manner,” Schmitt said. “I applaud the authority for having the foresight to take on this project and PENNVEST for recognizing the merits of this worthwhile project.”
The funding was awarded through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST), which was created by lawmakers in 1988 to provide financial assistance to support community sewer, storm water and drinking water projects.
CONTACT: Cheryl Schriner (717) 787-5490