A core focus of the new contract is digital transformation. Holyoke will become the first city in the Northeast to implement Veolia’s Hubgrade platform, a system that applies real-time data analytics, digital twins, and virtual modeling to improve system efficiency and performance. This move reflects a shift toward more predictive and sustainable utility management, aiming to cut energy usage, lower chemical dependency, and reduce long-term maintenance expenses.
City officials emphasized that this strategic modernization supports broader goals around sustainability, operational resilience, and responsible environmental stewardship—particularly in protecting the Connecticut River, a vital regional waterway.
Under the expanded agreement, Veolia will lead a comprehensive upgrade to Holyoke’s wastewater systems. The initiative includes modernizing asset tracking through a geographic information system (GIS), expanding the use of inspection tools such as digital cameras, and introducing a new centrifuge system designed to reduce hauling and disposal costs.
Applying smart systems to optimize operations in real time, Holyoke aims to extend the lifecycle of infrastructure investments while delivering tangible cost savings to the city and its ratepayers.
While Veolia’s presence across New England includes other municipalities like Springfield, Westborough, and Taunton, the Holyoke contract stands out for its integration of advanced digital tools at the municipal level. The city’s decision to adopt Hubgrade aligns with Veolia’s larger GreenUp strategy—focused on lowering emissions, improving resource use, and strengthening climate adaptation across its global water and waste operations.
Looking forward, the contract includes an option to extend services for an additional five years, positioning Holyoke to continue evolving its water infrastructure in step with emerging technologies and best practices.
