KINGSPORT — Domtar’s Kingsport mill received a long-awaited permit this week leading to the start of the anaerobic digester project.
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation issued the 142-page permit Wednesday. Jennifer Donnals, a spokesperson for TDEC, previously told the Times News the department received Domtar’s air quality permit application on Nov. 19, 2024.
“Receiving this permit is an important milestone in our efforts to advance the anaerobic digester project at the Kingsport Mill,†Charlie Floyd, vice president of strategic capital projects, said in an email statement. “This investment underscores Domtar’s commitment to sustainable innovation and environmental stewardship, while supporting good jobs and economic vitality here in Kingsport.â€
Floyd provided an update to the Kingsport Economic Development Board about the status of the project at the June 4 meeting. He said, at the time, Domtar had purchased 80% of the necessary equipment for the anaerobic digester.
“We appreciate the collaboration and thorough review provided by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, as well as the community’s continued patience as we move this project forward,†Floyd said.
Other permits from the city, Tennessee Department of Transportation and CSX are also needed to start the project, officials previously said.
Background
Domtar announced plans to develop a long-term odor mitigation solution in July 2024 and has provided regular in-person updates to the KEDB on the progress and other short-term odor mitigation efforts.
The mill used chemical oxidants to treat water in the current system, installed mobile clarifiers and began dredging the lagoon to remove some of the settled solids. At the April KEDB meeting, Domtar officials said that 12,000 wet tons were removed from the lagoon area during the dredging process.
Start-up of the new wastewater treatment system is expected by the third or fourth quarter of 2026, according to Domtar’s latest timeline.
Around 150 contractors are expected to be on site to build the digester and associated equipment, Floyd said. Domtar estimates a $12.8 million economic impact from the project — including labor, hotel and dining within the community.
