Haskoning appointed to deliver groundbreaking Ephyra® and Helea® Lite digestion technology for São Paulo
Deploying the technologies at the scale of Barueri showcases their suitability for mega‑city scale applications. Treatment capacity at Barueri will increase from 16,000 to 22,500 litres per second, with capacity at the São Miguel plant rising from 1,500 to 5,500 litres per second. Biogas generated through the new processes will be used for combined heat and power generation, thermal sludge drying, and other sustainable applications, effectively transforming both plants into state-of-the-art energy recovery facilities. The selected technologies represent a significant step forward in sludge management, setting a new standard for wastewater treatment valorisation.
Building a global model for environmental sanitation
Our partnership with Haskoning and the adoption of the Helea and Ephyra technologies reflect Sabesp’s commitment to sustainability, innovation and the well-being of the people of São Paulo. We are building a global model for environmental sanitation.
Enhancing anaerobic digestion performance
Developed by Haskoning, Ephyra is a compact and sustainable solution for advanced anaerobic sludge digestion. Using a plug-flow digestion approach, the technology improves the performance of anaerobic digestion facilities by reducing short-circuiting and optimising biological processes to increase solids destruction and biogas yields, while lowering downstream emissions and improving overall carbon performance.
These improvements will be complemented by Helea Lite, an advanced and sustainable digestion process that optimises heat recovery and minimises energy requirement. Through biological hydrolysis it increases the digestibility of feedstocks, enhancing the performance and increasing the capacity of treatment facilities.
Partnership for long‑term performance
João Almeida, Global Director Water Technology Products at Haskoning, said: “This initiative reinforces Sabesp’s position as a catalyst for transformation, adopting solutions that combine cutting-edge technology with environmental preservation. Haskoning is proud to support Sabesp in pioneering initiatives that raise operational standards and deliver tangible benefits for environmental stewardship and public health across the State of São Paulo.”
These landmark projects build on Haskoning’s established presence in Brazil and its position as a technology provider for water and wastewater treatment globally. Ephyra and Helea Lite form part of Haskoning’s existing portfolio, and its Nereda® biological wastewater treatment technology is currently under contract at 16 plants in Brazil, with implementation at 133 sites globally. More than 150 wastewater treatment installations using Haskoning technologies are currently under design, construction or operation globally.
Got a question?
Contact our Water Technology Products experts!
