SCWA 75th Anniversary Logo
The Suffolk County Water Authority announced the establishment of the Innovation in Water Research Fund to support projects that are at the forefront of research and innovation in the water industry. SCWA awarded the fund's inaugural grant to the Stony Brook Center for Clean Water Technology (CCWT) to research new carbon sources for PFAS removal systems.
The initial pilot program will test biochar materials manufactured from waste products, including kelp, oyster shells, wood chips and invasive bamboo. The project seeks to identify a locally sourced carbon alternative capable of removing multiple PFAS compounds simultaneously. Currently, SCWA spends approximately $90,000 for each carbon change out in a Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) vessel. With more than 200 GAC systems in its treatment portfolio, the cost of carbon continues to be a major expense for the utility. Sourcing an effective treatment material locally is intended to reduce operational costs.
"This fund ensures SCWA remains at the cutting edge of the industry," said SCWA Chairman Charlie Lefkowitz. "As a top-tier organization, we are leading the way in testing new technologies. Investing in local research provides cost-effective solutions without burdening ratepayers."
Phase 1 of the CCWT pilot program, which includes procurement, installation, initial operation and performance validation, is estimated at $220,000. SCWA is providing a $60,000 grant, with additional funding supplied by Suffolk County.
“Developing sustainable, locally sourced materials for PFAS removal is a critical scientific challenge, and we are thrilled to collaborate with SCWA to tackle it," said Dr. Christopher Gobler, Director of the Stony Brook Center for Clean Water Technology. "By repurposing waste products like bamboo, wood and oyster shells into highly effective biochar, this project has the potential to transform water treatment. SCWA's role as an industry leader makes them an ideal partner in deploying innovations that protect public health and our environment."
“Testing materials like oyster shells and other waste materials keeps SCWA ahead of the curve in water treatment innovation,” said Tim Kilcommons, P.E., Chief Engineer and Director of Research & Development. "A successful pilot could reduce our carbon change-out costs and maintain our high water quality standards."
The Innovation in Water Research Fund operates without ratepayer money. SCWA finances the program exclusively through revenue generated by its partnership with HomeServe, which offers optional repair plans for water and sewer lines to customers.
Going forward, SCWA plans to expand the fund by partnering with national research institutions to test emerging water technologies. Kilcommons and Thomas Schneider, Director of Water Quality & Laboratory Service, evaluate and recommend research projects for grant funding. The SCWA Board approved the inaugural CCWT funding allocation requested by CEO Jeff Szabo.
About SCWA:
The Suffolk County Water Authority is an independent public-benefit corporation operating under the authority of the Public Authorities Law of the State of New York. Serving approximately 1.2 million Suffolk County residents, SCWA operates without taxing power on a not-for-profit basis.
-30-