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Black Swan Labs outlines technical approach; cites Framingham and Syracuse as models
Summary
Black Swan Labs told Marlborough officials the feasibility study will be technical and not financial, highlighted other U.S. and international examples, and offered to bring economic experts if the city advances beyond feasibility.
Representatives from Black Swan Labs described the technical scope of a wastewater-energy feasibility study and cited examples where similar installations have been built or are planned in places such as Framingham, Syracuse, Vancouver and other municipalities.
Black Swan said the feasibility phase asks basic questions about municipal organizational structure and sewer flow data and that DEP may refine Phase 1 guidance; “we can help draft [the project narrative] for you,” a Black Swan presenter said. The firm noted DEP’s funding structure: a modest Phase 1 technical-assistance award (cited at about $15,000), larger design grants (around $100,000) and construction awards (up to $750,000) for qualifying projects.
Panelists discussed multiple ownership and operating models: utility-owned distribution, municipal ownership of boreholes, or private landowner-funded systems with the city acting as broker. Black Swan said financing answers are generally outside Phase 1 scope but that the firm can convene economic experts to consider ownership and revenue options if the city wants to progress to design.
Black Swan and staff offered to survey other local assets (ice rinks, district energy opportunities) and to prepare a concise narrative aimed at building-owner interest for a pilot at Countryside/Country Village.
