Covanta Fairfax energy-from-waste facility resumes operations

The Fairfax County Resource Recovery Facility in Lorton, Virginia, has resumed operations after upgrades were completed to improve facility performance and enhance fire detection, prevention and response. The facility had been idle following a fire earlier this year that caused damage to the waste storage area.

The energy-from-waste facility serves the sustainable waste disposal needs of Fairfax County residents, along with other neighboring communities. The facility processes up to 3,000 tons of municipal solid waste per day to produce enough renewable energy to power 80,000 homes continuously. The facility also recycles approximately 9,000 tons of metals annually.

“We are grateful to Fairfax County and the fire and rescue department for their efforts and cooperation while we worked to repair and enhance our systems at the facility. Over the last 25 years, we have been proud to provide the community a vital public service and a sustainable solution for managing waste, so we are happy to be getting back to work,” Joey Neuhoff, vice president and general manager of Covanta’s mid-Atlantic region, says.

Working with Fairfax County, Covanta has implemented new technologies and procedures to enhance fire prevention and response capabilities. Examples include the use of infrared / thermal imaging cameras, the installation of non-flammable roofing materials and expanded sprinkler systems, and improved waste storage procedures. Covanta has also worked to improve notification and coordination protocols with the county and the fire and rescue department.