PROJECT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVESThe World Bank Group (“WBG”) is exploring advanced sludge management solutions (ASM); with a special interest in Thermal Hydrolysis Process (THP). To support client decision-making; the organization requires a robust and user-friendly Excel-based economic model that can evaluate the financial feasibility of implementing these technologies given various scenarios. We have created a basic excel model that calculates financial feasibility. However; we require 1) develop a more robust set of input data; 2) validate the hypotheses and approach used in the initial model and 3) optimize the current model to be able to use it for project development with an acceptable level of accuracy and representativity. SCOPE OF WORKThe consulting firm will be required to undertake the following tasks:1. Qualitative Assessment: Identify and describe the key project characteristics and enabling conditions under which ASM and THP is likely to be economically viable. Similarly identify context in which THP and ASM are NOT viable. This should include; but not be limited to:*Population served*Wastewater flow rates*Organic load*Sludge concentration and composition*Volatile solids content*Existing treatment infrastructure*Regulatory drivers (e.g.; biosolids quality standards; energy recovery incentives)*Minimum scale (tonnes of total solids per day) at which technologies become economically viable 2. Data Collection: Collect granular CAPEX and OPEX data for ASM and THP installations across different geographies and plant sizes. Collect granular data on potential biogas or electricity/heat generated by methane capture.*Civil works*Mechanical and electrical equipment*ASM and THP-specific components (pressure vessels; pumps; heat exchangers; steam generation systems; etc)*Installation and commissioning costs*Operating costs (energy; chemicals; labor; maintenance; consumables)*Create a view of where future costs are going*Biogas and electricity/heat generated from methane captured*Develop a benchmark study of ASM and THP depending on the implementation context 3. Cost Curve Development: Develop cost curves for different plant components showing $/m³/day CAPEX and OPEX for different plant capacities. Include scaling factors and economies of scale. 4. Case Studies: Identify and document case studies of successful ASM and THP implementations. For each case study; provide:*Plant description (location; capacity; influent characteristics; sludge production)*Technology configuration (including digester type; THP supplier; energy recovery systems)*Reasons for success (technical; economic; regulatory; operational)*Lessons learned and applicability to other contexts. 5. Model Integration and Integrity: Integrate all collected data and findings into the Excel-based economic viability model. Ensure the model can:*Compare ASM and THP options under different scenarios.*Incorporate qualitative suitability factors alongside quantitative cost-benefit analysis.*Perform sensitivity analysis on key parameters (e.g.; energy prices; sludge volumes; CAPEX/OPEX variations)*Testing 6. Training: Conduct a training session for relevant staff to ensure internal capacity for model use and maintenance