Veolia to modernize Holyoke, Mass., wastewater operations

As part of a 10-year contract renewal to run the wastewater treatment plant in Holyoke, Mass., Veolia reported Oct. 14 that it will implement its Hubgrade digital platform for wastewater treatment. This solution includes AI-enabled predictive technology, robotics, digital twins and 3D virtual reality systems to analyze system performance.

The utility will use Hubgrade’s data to recommend adjustments to Veolia’s onsite team and Holyoke’s public works department. They’ll use Hubgrade’s insights to reduce energy consumption, chemical use and asset maintenance costs, as well as extend life of costly equipment, and cut consumption costs.

Veolia and Holyoke report their renewed collaboration will including adopting an enhanced geographic information system to digitize the location of wastewater infrastructure, routine digital camera inspections of the system’s assets, shared energy-saving measures, and a new centrifuge that will improve efficiency in hauling costs.

“Holyoke remains committed to pioneering sustainable environmental solutions that support our community's growth and protect our natural resources,” says Joshua Garcia, mayor of Holyoke. “This partnership with Veolia exemplifies our dedication to innovation, efficiency, and environmental stewardship, creating a cleaner, healthier future for all residents.”

Under their agreement, Veolia will continue to operate and manage the city’s conventional, activated sludge plant, which is capable of treating as much as 17.5 million gallons of wastewater daily. Veolia will also continue to maintain 40 miles of dedicated sewer mains and 77 miles of combined sewer and stormwater mains, which presently serve 40,000 homes and businesses along the Connecticut River in western Massachusetts. This system also features 13 combined sewer overflow outfalls, three interceptors and seven remote pumping stations that all comply with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards.