Encina Wastewater Authority

Founded in 1961, the Encina Wastewater Authority (EWA) protects public and environmental health by treating wastewater for approximately 380,000 residents and industrial users across 123 square miles. This mission is carried out through the operation, maintenance, and administration of the Encina Water Pollution Control Facility (EWPCF) in Carlsbad. The EWPCF, with a treatment capacity of 43.3 million gallons per day, safely discharges treated water into the Pacific Ocean through a 1.5-mile outfall.

EWA also operates remote pump stations and the Carlsbad Water Recycling Facility, owned by its Member Agencies. A model of innovation, EWA was one of the first wastewater facilities in the nation to adopt cogeneration in the 1980s, converting biogas into green energy that supplies up to 85% of its power needs. EWA pioneered the use of beer waste to boost biogas production and converts biosolids into high-grade fertilizer, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.