The investment, to refurbish over 50 minor wastewater works across Northern Ireland, was made under NI Water’s Base Maintenance Wastewater Investment Programme from November 2011 to spring 2013.
Phase one of the project is progressing on schedule, with the upgrades at these sites now complete.
Danny Kennedy, regional development minister, said: “The latest technology that has been used has already increased efficiencies to the wastewater treatment plants, including cost reductions in running cost, and reduced energy use. All the improvements meet Northern Ireland Environment Agency Standards and will facilitate future local development.
“Each project represents a significant investment in modernising wastewater treatment in rural areas. They bring environmental benefits for local communities. I am confident of continued positive progress on this essential project.”
Compliance of discharges from wastewater treatment works has improved steadily from 84 per cent in 2007 to 93 per cent in 2012 and NI Water says this is a direct result of investment into schemes such as the Base Maintenance Programme.