Hughes Energy is developing a pilot facility in Central Alberta that utilizes the patented Wilson System® to convert municipal solid waste (MSW) into a homogeneous fiber, which can be used for cardboard manufacturing, biofuels, green hydrogen, and sustainable aviation fuel. The pilot facility will process 7.5 tonnes of organic waste daily, diverting 2,625 tonnes of organic waste annually from landfills and avoiding approximately 7,718 tonnes of CO2e emissions per year.
This project aims to demonstrate the scalability and efficiency of the Hughes System as a step towards commercial-scale operations. The modular design of the pilot facility will enable optimization of system performance, validation of feedstock and product quality, and the establishment of long-term partnerships with municipalities and off-takers. At full-scale commercial operation, the facility is projected to process up to 170,000 tonnes of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) annually, diverting this amount from landfills and reducing approximately 300,000 tonnes of CO2e emissions per year.
The project is expected to create 3-5 FTEs and 25-35 indirect jobs during the pilot phase, with 50 FTEs and 250-300 indirect jobs anticipated at the commercial scale. Economically, the initiative will attract investment, establish a new value chain for MSW, and enhance cost competitiveness in waste management and renewable energy sectors. By reducing landfill waste and producing renewable products, this project aligns with Alberta’s circular economy goals and contributes to substantial GHG emissions reductions.