Aqua North Carolina Advances PFAS Treatment for Water Safety
Aqua North Carolina is proud to announce the recent completion of seven innovative PFAS treatment facilities throughout its extensive service area. This development is a significant milestone in the company's efforts to ensure safe, clean drinking water for its customers.
Comprehensive Treatment Solutions
The recently established PFAS treatment systems are part of Aqua's broad master plan to tackle PFAS challenges and comply with evolving federal drinking water standards. As Aqua implements these technologies, they are demonstrating their commitment to improving public health and safeguarding the environment.
Showcasing Advances in Treatment Technology
At a ribbon-cutting event, Aqua highlighted its advanced PFAS treatment solutions. Guests, including local officials and industry leaders, had the opportunity to see firsthand how these systems work in conjunction with the existing iron and manganese filters at Aqua’s Bayleaf Master System. This particular system serves approximately 6,500 residents in North Raleigh, showcasing Aqua's capacity for large-scale operations to handle water treatment effectively.
Modular and Scalable Solutions
In addition to larger treatment processes, Aqua North Carolina introduced a modular anion exchange treatment system designed especially for smaller well sites. This approach allows the company to provide rapid, scalable solutions for PFAS removal while keeping costs manageable for customers. Currently, Aqua has over 50 sites approved for construction and aims to expand that number significantly in the upcoming years.
Commitment to Community and Customer Welfare
Aqua North Carolina President Shannon Becker expressed pride in the company’s approach to PFAS remediation. "We recognized the unique challenges presented by numerous community-based well systems and embraced this challenge with determination. Our innovative and scalable methods are pathways to ensure that local residents access safe drinking water, especially where alternative sources are unavailable."
Funding Initiatives to Support Customers
To support these ambitious projects, Aqua has secured $9.2 million from the State Revolving Fund, facilitated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality. This funding supports various PFAS initiatives crucial to Aqua's statewide mitigation strategies. Becker acknowledged the financial implications for customers, stating, "This investment will inevitably influence customer rates. However, we are actively pursuing additional funding, including grants and low-interest loans, to minimize the financial burden on our customers."
Continued Efforts for Water Safety
Aqua’s journey in North Carolina, according to President Colleen Arnold, is just beginning. "Despite the obstacles we may face, we are dedicated to advancing PFAS treatment systems across the state. It’s our promise to the residents that safety in drinking water remains our top priority."
State Officials Support Aqua's Initiatives
In addition to Aqua’s internal perspectives, state officials reiterated the significance of removing PFAS from drinking water. John Nicholson, Chief Deputy Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, stressed the importance of these initiatives: "Access to clean drinking water is vital for all North Carolinians. Aqua’s proactive endeavors to tackle PFAS issues play a substantial role in protecting communities state-wide."
About Aqua North Carolina
Aqua North Carolina is dedicated to serving around 323,000 individuals across 51 counties in North Carolina. Their commitment to ensuring top-quality water services is unwavering, emphasizing sustainable practices and community support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are PFAS and why are they a concern?
PFAS are synthetic chemicals used in various industries, known to contaminate drinking water and potentially harm human health.
How many treatment systems is Aqua North Carolina installing?
Aqua North Carolina recently completed the installation of seven PFAS treatment systems to improve water quality.
What alternative solutions is Aqua implementing for smaller sites?
Aqua has developed modular anion exchange treatment systems to effectively remove PFAS from smaller well systems.
What funding has Aqua received for these projects?
The company has secured $9.2 million from the State Revolving Fund for its PFAS projects.
What is Aqua's commitment to its customers?
Aqua North Carolina is dedicated to providing safe drinking water and is actively pursuing additional funding to minimize costs for customers.
