Tampa’s Department of Solid Waste and Environmental Program Management will celebrate becoming the second City in the nation to own and operate its own waste-to-energy (WTE) facility on July 22, 2020 at 9 am at 107 N 34th St., 33605. The city-owned facility was formally operated by a private contractor and transitioned to City operations on June 1, 2020.
In 2018, the City conducted an assessment of the McKay Bay WTE facility that revealed City-lead operation would improve the efficiency of facility operations and reduce the Department’s annual operating expenses by approximately $5 million dollars. The City intends to invest the savings into the facility to increase its longevity and ensure maximum energy production from Tampa’s waste stream. “This is an exciting and critical time for the City’s future. This plan will increase the reliability and the sustainability of the Solid Waste Department and the City of Tampa,” said Chris Eckert, WTE Plant Manager.
Each day, the McKay Bay WTE facility converts over 2 million pounds of household and commercial refuse into a renewable fuel source - electrical energy. In 2019, the WTE facility processed more than 310,000 tons of waste, generating enough electricity to power approximately 15,000 homes. The process saves over 302,000 barrels of oil and reduces the need to landfill solid waste.
“The safe operation of Tampa’s solid waste system has become more apparent in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Effective removal and disposal practices have been essential towards maintaining sanitary conditions throughout our City. Although the pandemic wasn’t on the radar when we considered our options, the development of the current events solidified our decision to take on this endeavor.” said Mark Wilfalk, Director.
Social distancing and virtual options for the press conference will be available as needed.
For additional information on the McKay Bay Complex, visit the website at www.tampagov.net/solidwaste.
Note: Special Waste disposal will be available beginning at 11 am on July 22nd.