The sewage treatment plant of Uppsala was originally built in 1946 and has since then been extended and upgraded several times up to 1972 when the last major upgrading was completed. In 1987 it was decided to renew the treatment plant for at least another 20-30 years of operation and to upgrade the biological process to include nitrogen reduction. A 7 year plan covering some 18 items with a total investment cost of approximately 120 MSEK was set in action during 1987. The aim was to raise the cost efficiency by introducing modern techniques, new machinery, a better working environment and a better understanding of the processes used. The need to keep the plant in operation during reconstruction work has caused difficulties, delays and unforseen costs but a close cooperation between all parties concerned (operators, contractors, engineers and the regional environment administration) has solved most of the problems. Experiences so far include an improved effluent quality, a better cost efficiency, a healthier and more engaged operating staff. A research team has been engaged to develop and introduce a nitrogen reduction scheme in the activated sludge process. This has been a challenging and fruitful experience.
