🚀 Exciting news! Soneera Water is setting up its Canadian HQ in Sundre, Alberta! 🇨🇦🌟 This move brings cutting-edge wastewater treatment technology to our region. #Olds #Alberta 🌍💧
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Soneera Water Chooses Sundre as Canadian Headquarters
Sundre, Alberta – In an exciting development for the local community, Soneera Water Canada Ltd., a leading name in wastewater treatment, has chosen Sundre as the location for its Canadian headquarters. This move marks a significant milestone for both the company and the municipality, as it prepares to transform Sundre into a hub for cutting-edge wastewater technology.
A New Hub for Innovation
Soneera Water’s decision to establish its Canadian base in Sundre comes with the acquisition of a new office and warehouse facility, located in the town’s southwest industrial district. The company has invested $3.15 million in this 31,654-square-foot property, which will be reconfigured to house its headquarters and a state-of-the-art research center.
According to Darrell Behan, CEO of Soneera Water Canada Ltd., the facility will be more than just an office space. "Once the retrofit is complete, the building will feature a fully equipped laboratory and research and development center," Behan noted. This new setup is designed to advance Soneera Water’s mission to tackle some of the most challenging pollutants in wastewater, including PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These synthetic chemicals, used globally since the 1950s, pose significant environmental and health risks, and Soneera Water is committed to developing effective treatments for them.
Expanding Capabilities
In addition to the initial investment, Soneera Water plans to expand its space further by adding an additional 4,000 square feet dedicated to research and development. This expansion is scheduled for next summer and is expected to cost around $1.3 million. Behan explained that while most companies wait to secure a steady stream of orders before committing to such expansions, Soneera Water’s decision was driven by the unique opportunity to acquire the facility and the pressing need to keep their technology at the forefront of wastewater treatment.
Building for the Future
The newly purchased building, located at 816, 5th Avenue SW, is seen as an ideal fit for Soneera Water’s needs. Behan described the property as a perfect match that “ticks 10 out of 10 boxes for us,” praising its construction quality and suitability for their operations. With significant investment backing, Soneera Water is well-positioned to advance its research without the constraints of capital limitations. This financial stability allows the company to pursue ambitious projects and offer fixed-price performance models for future contracts.
Local Support and Community Engagement
Soneera Water’s choice of Sundre as its main base of operations is not just a strategic business decision but also a reflection of the town’s supportive environment. Behan highlighted the municipality’s proximity to major urban centers like Calgary, Airdrie, Red Deer, and Olds as key factors. The local community’s enthusiasm and the support from town officials, including Mayor Richard Warnock and Chief Administrative Officer Linda Nelson, were also crucial in the decision-making process.
"The friendliness and proactive attitude of the local residents and officials have been remarkable," Behan said. He also noted that MLA Jason Nixon has been supportive of the project, further reinforcing the positive reception Soneera Water has experienced in Sundre.
A Collaborative Approach
Soneera Water’s collaboration with Canadian manufacturers and suppliers is another aspect of their strategy. The company has worked closely with global pump manufacturers to ensure that the equipment used in the Sundre plant is 25 percent more energy-efficient than standard wastewater pumps. This commitment to cutting-edge, energy-efficient technology aims to lower operational costs for municipalities adopting Soneera’s solutions.
Local engagement has been a notable aspect of the project, with residents and businesses showing keen interest in the progress of the wastewater treatment initiative. Behan shared that the community frequently inquires about the project’s status, reflecting a high level of local investment and curiosity.
Looking Ahead
As Soneera Water settles into its new headquarters and begins its work in Sundre, the future looks bright for both the company and the municipality. With its advanced technology and strong community support, Soneera Water is set to play a pivotal role in advancing wastewater treatment solutions in Canada and beyond.