Würzburg Wastewater Sludge Drying Facility Project

The Zweckverband (Waste Management Association) is planning to construct a wastewater sludge drying facility at the Waste-to-Energy Plant (MHKW) in Würzburg. This facility will be energetically connected to the MHKW and integrated into the existing infrastructure at the site. The goal is to reduce the water content in pre-dewatered sludge through drying, enabling sustainable thermal recovery of the sludge. In 2023, the client commissioned a feasibility study to clarify the technical and economic viability of the project. Based on this study and subsequent market research, the client estimates an investment volume of 30 to 40 million EUR (net). The sludge drying facility is expected to be operational by the end of June 2028. The contractor will need to pre-finance the investment costs, which will be repaid through fees collected by the client over the depreciation period after the facility is operational. The general contractor will also be responsible for the overall planning, which includes engineering structures, structural planning, and technical equipment (TGA). The contractor must consider the following aspects during the execution of their services: - Limited space at the site; - Due to high capacity demand, the client has increased the planned capacity from 50,000 tons of dewatered sludge per year to 60,000 tons; - Energy efficiency through maximum heat recovery (i.e., drying temperature of approximately 60 °C); - Prevention of emissions and odors (the site is located in a built-up area, approximately 1.5 km from residential areas in neighboring municipalities). It is recommended that potential bidders participate in consortia, joint ventures, or subcontracting arrangements to meet the qualification and award criteria and to enhance their chances of success in the procurement process.