Detroit Waste-To-Energy Plant Calls Back 91 Workers
Detroit Renewable Power LLC said Monday that it is calling back 91 workers who had been temporarily laid off as a result of actions of the previous owners of the Detroit energy-from-waste plant.
The company said the callback is part of its plan to restart the plant. A total of 130 workers are expected to be called back once the EFW plant resumes full operations.
"We are making significant, immediate improvements in the plant and understand the important role it plays in providing responsible waste management, recycling and vital energy services for Detroit," said DRP operating president Paul Maier. "Our new owners will accept nothing less than best-in-class standards of operation in all areas of performance affecting our ability to provide a long-term, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly supply of renewable energy from waste derived fuel for the essential energy needs of Detroit's core business districts."
The EFW plant was closed in October and its workers laid off by the prior owners. The plant was purchased Nov. 16 by DRP parent company, Detroit Renewable Energy LLC in a $50 million investment in Detroit that also included Detroit Thermal LLC, which owns Detroit's underground steam system along the Woodward Corridor from the riverfront to New Center. The companies operate as independent subsidiaries of DRE.
DRP has already conducted extensive surveys of existing conditions as part of its restart program to improve efficiencies in how the plant operates, according to Maier.
EFW plant enhancements include:
* Improvements to the area that receives waste from collection trucks for more efficient separation and processing of trash, and better prevention of odors from escaping the plant.
* Upgrading and adding new "continuous monitoring systems" for around-the-clock controls to meet or exceed Michigan and Federal environmental standards and permits, including new EPA standards.
* Internal improvements for employee work, break and lockers areas as part of a plant-wide program to enhance the employee quality of life, and emphasize working safety as a primary standard.
Maier also said that new programs are being developed for community outreach, open communication, transparency and better partnering with the neighboring areas, especially including odor control, plant appearances and more efficient traffic flow.
More at www.detroitrenewablepower.com, www.detroitthermal.com or www.districtenergy.org.
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