Organic Matter Biomethanization Centre (CBMO)

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The City of Quebec launched an ambitious project to build the Organic Matter Biomethanization Centre (CBMO), a pioneering facility designed to transform food waste and municipal sludge into renewable energy and fertiliser.

Using a continuous anaerobic digestion process in a thermophilic phase (above 55°C), the centre represents a major step toward sustainable waste management and a circular economy.

AtkinsRéalis was entrusted with delivering comprehensive services, from detailed design (all disciplines, from civil to instrumentation and controls) to site supervision, ensuring the project met its ambitious environmental and operational goals.

Engineering Beyond Expectations

The CBMO project was far from ordinary. Maintaining a thermophilic process above 55°C posed a rare and complex engineering challenge. Beyond temperature control, the design had to accommodate high-temperature sludge networks, integrate numerous heat exchangers, and manage stresses on piping materials.

The biogas network added another layer of complexity, requiring solutions for low-pressure distribution and the transition between batch production and continuous purification.

All of this had to be achieved while complying with new regulations on organic matter landfilling and ensuring energy efficiency.

Innovation in Action

We approached these challenges with a holistic and innovative mindset and began by rethinking traditional biomethanization techniques, conducting a detailed energy management analysis to optimise consumption and maximise recovery. This led to the design of customized equipment and the decision to heat the process using electrical energy, a choice that significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions while boosting renewable natural gas production.

Our team integrated advanced technologies, including spiral and tube-tube heat exchangers, biogas purification systems, and odour treatment solutions, ensuring the centre operated efficiently and met environmental standards.

For the biogas network, we used sophisticated modelling tools to simulate multiple scenarios, enabling us to design a system that could handle low pressures and complex branching without compromising reliability.

Throughout the project, close collaboration with the client ensured that budgets and timelines were respected, even amid pandemic-related adjustments, while maintaining the highest standards of quality.

A project for future generations

The impact of this project goes far beyond technical excellence. Thanks to the implementation of these solutions, the CBMO now avoids approximately 18,000 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent emissions each year and produces 10 million cubic metres of biomethane per year, a clean and renewable energy source that meets local needs.

In addition, the centre produces 73,000 tonnes of fertilisers (digestate and ammonium sulphate), offering farmers a sustainable alternative to chemicals and promoting soil health.

On a social level, the project engages citizens in the fight against climate change through food waste management. The project includes an interpretation centre that will open in 2026-2027 to raise community awareness of sustainability and renewable energy. Economically, it reduces dependence on the Quebec City incinerator and creates new sources of revenue through the sale of biomethane, thereby strengthening municipal services and regional stability.

The client recognised our dedication and professionalism, highlighting the positive impact of our work. Our commitment to excellence and our desire to exceed expectations have helped establish a long-term relationship of trust with the city.

Recognition of excellence

Our innovative approach and commitment to sustainable development were recognised at the 22nd edition (2024) of the Quebec Consulting Engineering Awards, where we won the award in the Industry category. This prestigious award celebrates engineering achievements that push boundaries and have a lasting impact.

In addition, this recognition highlights the ingenuity and dedication of our team and reinforces our commitment to providing solutions that promote a more sustainable future.

To date, several awards have recognised the excellence and relevance of this project:

Facility of the Year from the National Waste & Recycling Association's Recycling Award;
Award of Excellence in the Industrial category of the Quebec Consulting Engineering Grand Prix from the Association des firmes de génie-conseil du Québec;
APL Énergies Personality of the Year 2023: Carl Desharnais;
Pierre Dansereau Distinction – Air, Climate Change and Energy Sector from Americana 2025;
Honoris genius Award from the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec in the Sustainable Development category;
Award of Excellence in the Industrial category of the Quebec Consulting Engineering Grand Prix from the Association des firmes de génie-conseil du Québec for the organic matter recovery centre (part of the CBMO).

18,000 tonnes of CO₂

avoided each year

At full capacity 10 million m³

of biomethane produced per year

At full capacity 73,000 tonnes

of renewable fertilisers generated each year

Markets

Industrial
Location

Quebec, Canada
Client

City of Quebec
Completion date

2023

Patrick Aubin

Buildings & Places global market lead, Quebec City, Canada contact form+1 418 953 0649