The Kent Bioresources Request for Information (RFI) is a strategic market engagement initiative launched by Southern Water Services Limited (SWS) to inform the development of its ambitious long-term bioresources strategy, particularly through the modernization and consolidation of sludge treatment operations in Kent. As part of its alignment with upcoming environmental standards and AMP8 (Asset Management Period 8) priorities, the project aims to streamline seven existing sludge treatment centres (STCs) that collectively process approximately 42,000 tonnes of dry solids annually into just three advanced "super-sites" located at indicative preferred locations: Ashford STC in South Kent, Ham Hill STC in North Kent, and Motney Hill Water Treatment Works in Medway. These sites will undergo full redevelopment, incorporating cutting-edge infrastructure such as Advanced Anaerobic Digestion (AAD) processes, combined heat and power (CHP) for biogas utilization, or biomethane upgrading for injection into the national grid, while also exploring complementary upgrades at facilities in Hampshire and Sussex.

The RFI specifically seeks supplier feedback to assess market appetite for delivery, preferred contracting and financing models—such as a single third-party Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Maintain (DBFOM) contract with off-balance-sheet capital treatment and potential Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) structures—and innovative technical solutions like alternative treatment processes, enhanced resource recovery, or integration of third-party waste streams. By inviting input on delivery risks, interfaces, resilience opportunities, and potential partnerships among civil contractors, technology providers, funders, and operators, SWS builds on prior 2024 engagements, including a market event and one-to-one discussions to shape a performance-based, long-term contract framework. Responses are due by March 31, 2026, and interested parties can access the full RFI document via free registration on the eSourcing portal at southernwater.bravosolution.co.uk under the reference "pqq_907 Kent Bioresources Project Request for Information."