The Southeastern Public Service Authority (SPSA) received a positive update on the Frederick Sorting Facility’s acceptance testing, a critical step in implementing a new waste-supply contract aimed at reducing reliance on landfills and improving recycling rates. The facility uses AI-driven sorting technology to divert waste from the landfill and increase recycling in the region.
Facility testing progress: SPSA completed the first ramp-up test of processing approximately 54,000 tons per year on January 29, 2026, with the facility capable of handling more material but limited by budget until July 1, 2026. The next milestone involves ramping up to 108,000 tons annually.
Contract goals and benefits: The contract with AMP guarantees a 50% diversion rate from the landfill, including 20% recyclables and 30% organics, aiming to extend landfill life and stabilize disposal planning for member local governments. The regional recycling rate is expected to increase from about 7% to 20%.
Independent engineer’s test results: The three-day performance test from January 27-29 evaluated throughput, downtime, and material recovery. The facility exceeded the 50% diversion target each day, achieving diversion rates of 74.8%, 82.0%, and 77.6%, with total downtime of 133 minutes primarily due to trailer swaps.
Operational observations and next steps: The report identified potential bottlenecks, including the SSI reducer, and recommended minimizing downtime during biochar trailer swaps. Planned upgrades include fire detection improvements and further processing of recyclables at the AMP Sortation Cleveland facility until the Frederick MRF upgrade later in 2026.
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