By Tim Ryan

Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD), the nation’s 14th largest wastewater utility, is quietly revolutionizing our region’s environmental and economic future. Serving 1.9 million residents across 20 cities and counties, HRSD is a powerhouse of innovation that most locals don’t even realize is shaping Hampton Roads. From cutting-edge water technology to a bold new renewable energy project, HRSD is driving sustainability and opportunity for our entrepreneurial ecosystem.

At the heart of HRSD’s impact is its commitment to advancing wastewater treatment through process intensification and decarbonization. By collaborating with universities and industry partners, HRSD has secured patents that save millions in operational and capital costs. Their Sustainable Water Initiative for Tomorrow (SWIFT) is a flagship One Water project, redefining how we manage and reuse water resources. These efforts aren’t just about compliance with stringent Chesapeake Bay regulations—they’re about building a resilient, innovative Hampton Roads.

Now, HRSD is taking sustainability to the next level with a $30 million partnership with Virginia Natural Gas at its Atlantic Treatment Plant in Virginia Beach. This facility processes up to 54 million gallons of wastewater daily, producing biogas—a methane-rich byproduct. Instead of flaring this gas, which contributes to climate pollution, the new project will transform it into renewable natural gas (RNG). This RNG will power approximately 4,000 homes annually, reduce greenhouse emissions, and inject clean energy into local pipelines. HRSD’s innovative approach turns waste into wealth, creating revenue and supporting Virginia’s Energy Innovation Act of 2022.

Hampton Roads is on the cusp of a green revolution, and HRSD is leading the charge. Join us in celebrating their work and seizing the chance to shape a sustainable, prosperous future for our region. Stay tuned for the webinar and let’s innovate together!

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