Case Vignette
Investing in Resilience: How SacSewer is Building a Sustainable Future for Sacramento
As the Sacramento region continues to grow, so does the demand for sustainable and reliable wastewater management. The Sacramento Area Sewer District (SacSewer) is leading this transformation with forward-thinking investments that protect public health, preserve natural resources, and strengthen community resilience. Serving more than 1.6 million residents, SacSewer’s mission goes far beyond wastewater treatment — it’s about creating a long-term framework for sustainability, innovation, and environmental stewardship.
Building Smarter Infrastructure
At the center of SacSewer’s efforts is its Capital Improvement Program (CIP), which balances operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and environmental responsibility. One of the most ambitious projects is the Harvest Water Program, designed to deliver up to 50,000 acre-feet of recycled water annually to agricultural lands in southern Sacramento County. This initiative, with an estimated cost of $597 million, will reduce groundwater pumping, restore habitats, and enhance long-term water security for the region. Supported by $322 million in state and federal grants, it represents more than 40% of SacSewer’s total capital investment over the next decade.
Beyond recycling, SacSewer is also tackling the challenge of aging infrastructure. With thousands of miles of pipelines and treatment facilities, many over 50 years old, the agency’s rehabilitation program ensures system reliability while minimizing emergency costs. Projects like the N21 Central Interceptor Rehab and Main Line Renewal Program use advanced technologies such as Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) to extend system life and maintain efficiency. SacSewer’s commitment to 100% cash funding for renewal projects underscores a fiscally responsible approach to infrastructure investment.
Turning Waste into Resources
SacSewer’s innovation extends beyond infrastructure — it’s reimagining how wastewater can serve as a renewable resource. The district’s EchoWater Resource Recovery Facility, completed in 2023 at a cost of $1.6 billion, is one of the largest public works projects in Northern California. This state-of-the-art facility removes 89% of nitrogen and 99% of ammonia before releasing treated water into the Sacramento River, significantly improving regional water quality.
Complementing EchoWater is the BioGeneration Facility, a $140 million renewable energy project that will convert digester gas (methane) into electricity and steam for onsite use. Expected to save $7.7 million annually in energy costs, this project positions SacSewer as one of the few wastewater utilities approaching energy independence. In addition, biosolids generated through the treatment process are being recycled into soil conditioners and energy sources, turning what was once waste into valuable economic and environmental assets.
Community Engagement and Equity
SacSewer’s success is grounded in transparency and community trust. Recognizing the financial challenges faced by ratepayers, the district expanded its Sewer Lifeline Rate Assistance Program (SLRAP) to offer monthly bill credits to qualified low-income households. Through the Confluence Regional Partnership Program, non-rate revenues are reinvested into local environmental and community initiatives — ensuring that sustainability benefits everyone, not just those connected to the system.
A Model for Sustainable Urban Growth
From water recycling to renewable energy and infrastructure renewal, SacSewer exemplifies how a modern utility can lead with both environmental and fiscal responsibility. The agency’s initiatives not only meet today’s needs but also prepare the region for future climate and regulatory challenges.
By transforming waste into resources, SacSewer is redefining wastewater management as a cornerstone of sustainable growth. Its investments in resilience and innovation are ensuring that Sacramento’s future remains clean, reliable, and ready for generations to come.