Smart. Responsible. Sustainable.   image
Selling methane generated from sewage treatment reduces net costs.
Less waste going to landfills decreases environmental impact.
Using recycled water conserves water from the Edwards Aquifer.
 
image SAWS is the first major utility in the nation to sell methane gas generated while treating the city's sewage. Methane gas is a natural and renewable source of energy.
image In 2008, SAWS celebrated the delivery of 10 billion gallons of recycled water. Using recycled water not only brings jobs and economic benefits to San Antonio, it is also a great source of dependable water for industry, manufacturers, and major landscapers – like golf courses and cemeteries.
image By mid-2009, 80 percent of SAWS solid organic matter will be used for composting, which also supports water conservation and extends the life of San Antonio's landfills.
image Mitchell Lake – formerly a sewage collection site in the early 1900s – is positioned on a natural migratory route and is a key resting point for thousands of birds. SAWS worked with the Mitchell Lake Wetlands Society and the National Audubon Society to convert the site to a national bird sanctuary (pictured below).

"San Antonio is Going Green with Sewage"

"The San Antonio Water System will sell captured methane gas generated from the utility's treatment of 140,000 tons of biosolids, or sewage, from customers each year. The city-owned utility's board of trustees approved a contract to provide at least 900,000 cubic feet of natural gas daily for the next 20 years. 'Treating these biosolids generates an average of 1.5 million cubic feet of gas a day,' said Steve Clouse, the water system's chief operating officer. 'That's enough gas to fill seven commercial blimps or 1,250 tanker trucks each day'."
© 2008 San Antonio Water System
2800 U.S. Hwy 281 North • P.O. Box 2449 • San Antonio, TX 78298-2449
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