To secure a long-term, reliable water supply for Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia launched a $464M investment program with the Millennium Challenge Corporation to expand bulk water production, advance wastewater recycling, and strengthen systemwide sustainability. Our team supported this national effort by helping guide the planning, design, and execution of new groundwater wells delivering up to 40 MGD, more than 25 miles of large diameter pipelines that traversed both remote landscapes and dense urban corridors, an advanced water purification plant, and a 13 MGD wastewater recycling facility serving the city’s combined heat and power plants.

The program also improved industrial pretreatment practices and expanded
water access for migrant communities through more than 100 kiosks, all delivered while navigating extreme winter conditions, global supply chain disruptions, and Mongolia’s first application of micro tunneling.

KEY CONTRIBUTIONS:

Program Management & Oversight
We provided program management support to keep this multi-year initiative aligned with project goals and technical requirements. Our team traveled to Mongolia, collaborated with
local partners, and supported informed decision-making, helping maintain progress despite pandemic-related and geopolitical disruptions.

Technical Advisory & Problem Solving
We advised on water quality challenges, including scaling and corrosion prevention for recycled water systems. Our team supported integration of advanced treatment processes—RO, lamella clarification, MBBR, UV, and residuals management—and reviewed designs and submittals for feasibility and compliance.

Construction Sequencing & Startup Strategy
We developed sequencing strategies to coordinate well fields, pipelines, and treatment facilities, and supported startup and commissioning for both plants. We worked with the
delivery team to address climate extremes, trenchless crossings, and material constraints, helping maintain progress toward critical milestones.