SRS Liquid Waste Program earns three DOE Project Management awards

The U.S. Department of Energy-Savannah River and Savannah River Mission Completion team members gather in front of Saltstone Disposal Unit (SDU) 8, the third mega-size unit built at the Savannah River Site. The SDU 8/9 project team won the Project Management Achievement Award from DOE. Photo courtesy of Savannah River Site.

Date: October 02, 2025

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has honored the Savannah River Site’s (SRS) liquid waste program with three national awards for excellence in project management.

DOE-Savannah River Operations Office and its liquid waste contractor, Savannah River Mission Completion (SRMC), were recognized during DOE’s annual awards program.

Charles Comeau of DOE-Savannah River received the Federal Project Director of the Year Award for leading major disposal projects ahead of schedule and under budget.

“I am very humbled to receive this award,” Comeau said. “While this is an individual award, I appreciate that I would not be receiving the award if not for the hard work and dedication of my federal and contractor team.”

Comeau directed the completion of Saltstone Disposal Units (SDUs) 8 and 9 seven months early and more than $60 million under budget. He also provided leadership for SDUs 10, 11 and 12, as well as projects at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant.

Under his leadership, two additional DOE awards were presented to SRS teams. The SDU 8 and 9 team earned the Project Management Achievement Award for meeting cost and schedule goals, while the SDU 10, 11, and 12 project team received the Project Controls Excellence Award for strong oversight of the $496 million effort.

DOE-Savannah River Manager Edwin Deshong said the awards reflect progress in addressing environmental challenges.

“The SRS liquid waste program is meeting DOE’s cleanup responsibilities safely and efficiently using innovative solutions and lessons learned. Congratulations to all the team members and thank you for a job well done,” Deshong said.

SRMC President and Program Manager Dr. Thomas Burns Jr. also praised the recognition.

“This recognition from our customer reflects our unwavering commitment to safety, innovation, and excellence in every project we undertake,” Burns said. “Our success in winning these prestigious awards highlights the collaborative effort and ownership demonstrated by our employees, solidifying our reputation as leaders in the industry.”

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