Covanta Fairfax energy-from-waste facility resumes operations

The Fairfax County Resource Recovery Facility, managed by the world leader in sustainable waste and energy solutions Covanta, recently resumed operations after the completion of upgrades to enhance facility performance and improve fire detection, prevention, and response capabilities.

The plant had been idle since a fire caused damage to the waste storage area earlier in 2017.

“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,” Joey Neuhoff, vice president and general manager of Covanta’s mid-Atlantic region, said. “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.”

As part of the upgrades, Covanta and Fairfax County added to the facility infrared and thermal imaging cameras and non-flammable roofing materials. They also expanded sprinkler systems, improved waste storage procedures and worked with the County and the Fire and Rescue Department to develop enhanced notification and coordination protocols.

The facility processes as much as 3,000 tons of municipal solid waste each day to produce enough renewable energy to power 80,000 homes continuously. It also recycles approximately 9,000 tons of metals annually.