Case Study: The Pacific Palisades

Recycled Water: A Sustainable Solution

After careful consideration of various options by our Analysis Team, the proposed primary water source for the Pacific Palisades ATAC system is purified recycled water from the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant, delivered via a newly constructed underground tunnel.

Los Angeles is a leader in water recycling, and the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant, located near El Segundo, is a key component of the city's water infrastructure. The plant currently treats a significant amount of wastewater, and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) is undertaking a major initiative called "Operation NEXT" to recycle 100% of Hyperion's treated wastewater by 2035. This involves advanced treatment processes, including reverse osmosis, UV disinfection, and advanced oxidation, to produce purified water that meets or exceeds all drinking water standards.

The Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant Photo by Erik Avila, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.

Operation NEXT represents a paradigm shift in water management, transforming a previously wasted resource into a valuable asset. By utilizing this purified recycled water, the ATAC system will:

Ensure Drought Resilience: Recycled water is a reliable source, independent of rainfall and less susceptible to drought conditions than traditional water sources.
Promote Sustainability: Reusing wastewater reduces the city's reliance on imported water and minimizes the discharge of treated wastewater into the ocean.
Provide a Dedicated Supply: The ATAC system will have a dedicated water source, ensuring that firefighting needs are not compromised by competing demands for potable water.