Alpheus was originally selected by the Council to operate the leachate treatment plant and associated landfill due to our proven track record in managing similar facilities. As part of the tender process, Alpheus invited the Council to visit one of our local sites, which we have successfully managed for several years, to demonstrate our strong operational expertise and effective approach to management contracts.

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Within just a few weeks of receiving the initial enquiry, Alpheus assumed full responsibility for the site, rapidly developing a comprehensive understanding of the plant, the client, and its unique operational challenges. This in-depth insight enabled Alpheus to deliver a tailored operations and maintenance package designed specifically to meet the Council’s needs.

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Highlights over Alpheus’s tenure have included:

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Reducing whole-life operational costs

This has been achieved by establishing an off-site membrane cleaning facility, designed to maximise performance and extend membrane lifespan. Off-site cleaning is proven to be five times more effective than in-situ cleaning, restoring and sustaining plant throughput for longer periods. This approach not only enhances plant efficiency, but also lowers the risk of plant failure and the associated need for costly on-demand tankering.

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Improvement in Real-Time Effluent Quality Monitoring

Effluent quality monitoring has been enhanced through optimisation and upgrading of both interstage and final effluent monitoring equipment. Two key improvements include:

• Installation of Dissolved Oxygen (DO) Monitoring in the Aeration Tank - This provides a continuous, real-time indication of the biological health and performance of the activated sludge process, enabling operators to quickly detect and respond to process imbalances.
• Upgrade of the Final Effluent Ammonia Analyser- The original analyser has been replaced with a unit capable of accurately measuring low concentrations of ammonia, ensuring compliance with the discharge permit and providing more reliable performance data.

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Amalgamation of Sampling and O&M Contracts

During the initial years of Alpheus’ tenure, landfill and final effluent sampling was undertaken by a third-party contractor appointed directly by the council. As Alpheus became established on site and demonstrated extensive knowledge and experience in operating wastewater treatment plants, it was agreed that both the sampling and O&M services would be best managed by a single provider. Consolidating these responsibilities under Alpheus improved efficiency, streamlined communication, and ensured greater accountability for overall site performance.