2 BMW Manufacturing Landfill Gas Energy Project bmw Greer, South Carolina BMW Manufacturing Co. Auto manufacturing Palmetto Landfill 22.9 million tons waste-in-place (2015) [closed] Combined Heat and Power (cogeneration – two gas turbines) 6.5 megawatts (MW) generation [11 MW rated capacity] $1 million/year Ameresco, BMW Manufacturing Co., Durr Systems, South Carolina Energy Office, Waste Management At its South Carolina assembly plant, BMW began using landfill gas (LFG) from Waste Management’s Palmetto Landfill in 2003 to fuel four gas turbine cogeneration units (4.8 MW rated capacity) and recover 72 MMBtu per hour of hot water. The turbines fulfilled about 25 percent of the plant’s electrical needs and nearly all of its thermal needs. For these outstanding "green" efforts, BMW was awarded LMOP’s 2003 Project of the Year. With excess LFG available and a continued desire to go "green," BMW turned to the largest consumer of energy in the entire plant: the paint shop. Employing Durr Systems, the original designer of the paint shop, BMW converted burners to use LFG and combusted the excess LFG in one of three boiler systems. This effort earned BMW Manufacturing recognition as LMOP’s 2006 Energy Partner of the Year. The original project’s highlights included: <ul> <li>Nearly 70 percent of BMW’s energy consumption came from LFG.</li> <li>World’s first automotive paint shop to integrate use of LFG in process equipment.</li> <li>A 9.5-mile pipeline crossed a river, two creeks, an interstate and BMW’s test track, delivering about 4,800 standard cubic feet per minute of filtered and dehydrated LFG.</li> <li>Protection from rising and fluctuating natural gas prices over a 20-year contract.</li> <li>According to BMW, a reduction of carbon dioxide emissions equivalent to driving 105 million miles per year, or more than 4,000 times around the earth.</li> </ul> In 2009, BMW replaced the four gas turbines with two more efficient gas turbines with a total rated capacity of 11 MW. In 2012, BMW discontinued LFG use in the burners and boiler, and has since used all the LFG coming to the plant in the turbines. Former EPA Administrator Christine Todd Whitman, who attended the 2003 project’s grand opening, stated, "This is a win-win for everyone. It yields significant amounts of clean energy. And, by avoiding 55,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year, it results in cleaner, healthier air for everyone to breathe." <blockquote> This LFG energy project allows BMW to take a wasted source of energy and use it to generate electricity, which benefits the environment and area residents through lower emissions. —Dr. Helmut Leube, former President, BMW Manufacturing Co.</blockquote> <blockquote> Durr Systems and BMW should be congratulated for implementing one of the most ambitious landfill gas energy projects in North America. This innovation paves the way for automakers and all manufacturers to significantly reduce their fixed costs and the consumption of fossil fuels. —former Congressman Thaddeus McCotter, U.S. House of Representatives</blockquote> 3 Crow Wing County Small Onsite Boiler Project crow Brainerd, Minnesota Crow Wing County Municipal Crow Wing County SLF 1.63 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Boiler 30 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) $5,000 per winter season Origin Climate, R.W. Beck <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/crow.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of landfill gas processing equipment at Crow Wing County Landfill.' />Crow Wing County has been an innovator in waste management in Minnesota for many years, with the latest innovation being an onsite landfill gas (LFG) recovery project. In December 2008, a gas collection and control system was installed; in October 2009, a boiler fueled by LFG began operating to heat onsite buildings. The use of this boiler offsets much of the landfill’s natural gas consumption. While this small landfill is not required to collect and combust LFG, the leachate recirculation system used since 1998 has sped up the generation of LFG, leading the County to install 10 gas wells to collect LFG for use in the boiler. While typical LFG-fired boilers are designed to process large amounts of LFG (e.g., 2,000 scfm), this boiler was designed primarily to use a much smaller expected throughput of 30 scfm. The boiler is used primarily to heat a maintenance building via an in-floor heating system. The amount of natural gas used by the facility has been reduced by nearly 70 percent since the implementation of the project. In addition to methane destruction, the project has also led to a reduction in volatile organic compound (VOC) concentrations; VOC concentrations in 2004 were more than 75 percent less than concentrations measured in 1997. The project has economic benefits as well. Because of the landfill’s verified emission reductions, the County was able to negotiate an agreement with Origin Climate (then TerraPass) to sell carbon credits and the reduction in heating costs was expected to save the County $5,000 annually. Read more about this project in a Waste Advantage article from 2014, "<a href="https://wasteadvantagemag.com/space-heating-with-lfg-small-project-big-savings/">Space Heating with LFG: Small Project-Big Savings</a>." <a title="EPA's External Link Disclaimer" class="exit-disclaimer" href="/home/exit-epa">Exit</a> 5 Escambia County - Gulf Power LFG Energy Project escambia Pensacola, Florida Gulf Power Company Utility Perdido Landfill 11.1 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Reciprocating Engine (2 Caterpillar 3520C/SR4B generator sets) 3.2 megawatts (MW) [rated capacity] Caterpillar, Curington Construction, Escambia County, GeoSyntec Consultants, HDR Engineering, Innovative Waste Consulting Services, Jones Edmunds, LFG Technologies, Tetra Tech AEG <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/escambia.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of County staff and Gulf Power representatives breaking ground on the LFG energy project in February 2010.' />In October 2010, Escambia County, Florida overcame significant challenges to bring a new landfill gas (LFG) energy project online at the Perdido Landfill. Despite County leadership’s disappointment with the landfill’s initial, unsuccessful LFG energy project which began in 1997, Escambia County regrouped and developed a replacement project with Gulf Power Company, with help from LFG Technologies which built and now operates the facility. This partnership allows the County to reduce harmful emissions from the landfill while generating income from the sale of LFG to Gulf Power, who sells the energy to residential and commercial end users. Although the project required a daunting $1.47 million investment to expand the LFG collection system, which included 37 new extraction wells and 5,430 feet of LFG transmission line piping, the County was able to obtain $950,000 through Department of Energy Block Grant Funding available under the America Recovery & Reinvestment Act. Partial funding was also provided by the Escambia County LFG Expansion Program. The investment is expected to pay off, since the project is predicted to generate $1 million in revenue annually. Furthermore, the facility was designed for future expansion with room for two additional engines, which would increase the total facility capacity from 3.2 MW to 6.4 MW. The Perdido Landfill project benefits the environment, the County, and the community. In addition, the facility was specifically designed to provide educational areas for school groups to learn about LFG energy projects. <blockquote> The project showcases how Gulf Power can partner with Escambia County and other communities to produce affordable renewable energy while providing tremendous benefits for our community and the environment…And it gives us an opportunity to teach schoolchildren about renewable energy. —Sandy Sims, former Manager of Gulf Power Public Affairs</blockquote> 6 Frederick County Electricity Project frederick Winchester, Virginia PJM Interconnection Utility Frederick County Regional Landfill 4.7 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Reciprocating Engine (2 GE Jenbacher J320 engines) 2.1 megawatts (MW) [rated capacity] County of Frederick, GE Energy – Jenbacher Gas Engines, Perennial Energy, SCS Engineers <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/frederick.jpg' align='right' alt='Aerial photo of the completed Frederick County Regional Landfill Green Power Facility.' />On November 4, 2010, Frederick County, Virginia initiated operations for a unique landfill gas (LFG) energy project, developed by the County’s Department of Public Works. Following initial concern within the community about the development of new power transmission lines, the County successfully designed the project to support the local power grid without the need to build additional lines. The County worked with SCS Engineers, who designed and constructed the facility. County officials made the extra effort to inform the community about the project and its environmental and financial benefits. Because there were no suitable end users to directly use the LFG, this project instead utilizes two engines to generate electricity on site, which is then managed and distributed by PPL Energy Plus. The engines generate approximately 2 MW of electricity, enough to power 1,200 homes in Frederick County. By developing the project themselves and retaining the gas rights, the County is responsible for maintenance and compliance issues but decided that maintaining the gas rights would be a successful strategy for securing the long-term generation of revenue. <blockquote> It is a beneficial project on various aspects, mitigating greenhouse gases and also offsetting fossil fuels that would otherwise be burned. —Darrin Dillah, Vice President, SCS Engineers</blockquote> 7 Greenville Gas Producers and Greenville County, South Carolina greenville Greer, South Carolina Duke Energy Utility Enoree Landfill 5.3 million tons waste-in-place (2007) [closed] Reciprocating Engine (two Caterpillar G3520s) 2 megawatts (MW) generation [3.2 MW rated capacity] Advance One Development, Caterpillar, Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation, Duke Energy Generation Services, Enerdyne Power Systems, GC Environmental, Golder Associates, Greenville County, Greenville Gas Producers, Perennial Energy <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/greenville.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of generators surrounded by custom sound deflection walls.' />Hindered by transmission fees to sell electricity to the local utility, Greenville Gas Producers sought other avenues to make the landfill gas (LFG) energy project at Enoree Landfill financially viable. Their persistence and ability to overcome barriers resulted in a community asset with globally beneficial reductions in greenhouse gases. In recognition of their efforts, LMOP awarded them Project of the Year for 2008. The project is believed to be the first U.S. LFG energy project to have its carbon credits validated and certified under the Verified Carbon Standard (fromerly Voluntary Carbon Standard) (VCS). VCS is a stringent and highly respected methodology to demonstrate that the reductions are real, additional, measurable, permanent, and independently verified. The ability to sell carbon credits improves the financial returns of the project. Since the local utility could not buy the power, the project team had to build a power line to Duke Energy’s closest distribution line, which was on the other side of a river. This resulted in the need for additional permits and approvals from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, two wetland boards and various state agencies. Also in the path of the proposed connection were two natural gas distribution lines, another power line, three major roads and numerous private landowners’ properties. Rather than returning to the chalkboard, Greenville Gas Producers began researching and contacting the appropriate parties about the feasibility of this option. As a result, they obtained the necessary permits and easements to begin construction of the project. Other project highlights include the following: <ul><li>Gas control and collection system consisting of 51 vertical gas collection wells was connected to 25 existing leachate cleanouts to extract additional LFG.</li> <li>Gas treatment reduces siloxane content from parts per million to parts per billion based on initial laboratory testing; this gas cleaning technology could increase the life expectancy of the engine.</li> <li>Greenville Gas Producers operates and manages the project at no cost to the county.</li></ul> The County’s Enoree Landfill closed in 2007; the project, which began in 2008, is expected to produce electricity for at least 15 years. The selection of the Caterpillar G3520 engines allows modular units to be easily moved to another site once the LFG production declines below economical flows. <blockquote> The County of Greenville is dedicated to improving the air quality of our environment and our community. By combining the benefits of carbon destruction, power production, and the added sale of carbon credits, this project will be an asset to the community for decades to come. —Butch Kirven, Chairman, Greenville County Council</blockquote> 8 Hyland Landfill Renewable Energy Facility - Casella Waste Systems hyland Angelica, New York New York State Electric & Gas Corporation (NYSEG) Utility Hyland Landfill 6.2 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Reciprocating Engine (three Caterpillar G3520s) 4.8 megawatts (MW) [rated capacity] Aria Energy, Casella Waste Systems, Caterpillar <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/hyland.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of the renewable energy facility at Hyland Landfill.' />The Hyland Landfill renewable energy facility is one of four LFG energy projects brought online in 2008 by Casella Waste Systems. As of 2019, Casella and its partners produce about 30 MW of clean energy at six landfills that Casella owns and/or operates. Casella’s dedication to generating green power and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions earned it LMOP’s 2008 Industry Partner of the Year award. Casella overcame numerous regulatory and legal challenges to complete the Hyland project. For example, due to constraints in the Village of Angelica’s power supply agreements, Casella was not able to interconnect to the village’s electric system. Instead, Casella installed a new 6-mile transmission line to transmit the green power through an overbuild circuit to New York State Electric & Gas Corporation (NYSEG), which sells the electricity in the New England power market. The Hyland Landfill project's highlights include the following: <ul><li>Three Caterpillar 3520 engine-generator sets with capacity for a fourth.</li> <li>Large portion of Angelica’s electrical system was upgraded, including replacement of poles and lines that dated to the 1930s.</li> <li>New lines improve reliability of the village’s incoming power feed.</li></ul> As a charter member of the EPA Climate Leaders program, Casella committed to reduce its total GHG emission footprint to 10 percent below 2005 levels by the year 2012. The company reported in its 2012 Sustainability Report that between 2005 and 2010, it reduced GHG emissions by 45 percent. <blockquote> We believe that waste is no longer just a throw-away, but is instead a raw material for manufacturing new products and a resource for producing clean energy. Investments in resource transformation solutions, such as landfill gas-to-energy facilities position the company to take advantage of significant economic, environmental policy and cultural shifts by pursuing opportunities that create both economic and environmental value from waste. —John W. Casella, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Casella Waste Systems</blockquote> 9 Iris Glen Landfill Gas Energy Project iris Johnson City, Tennessee James A. Quillen Veteran’s Hospital, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City Hospital, University, Municipal Iris Glen Landfill 6.8 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Boiler and Reciprocating Engine 1,500 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) Thousands of dollars in heating the hospital, plus $500,000 in revenue to city Air Liquide Biogas, Carolan Associates, Energy Systems Group, Rath, Young and Pignatelli, P.A., SulfaTreat, Waste Management <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/iris.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of sign at entrance to Iris Glen Environmental Center.' />In Johnson City, Tennessee, a public-private partnership utilized technology that proved to be a viable alternative to a regular electricity or renewable natural gas (RNG) project. The project’s innovation, extensive outreach and success earned it recognition as a 2007 LMOP Project of the Year. The project supplies cleaned LFG that is about 90 percent of pipeline quality to the Mountain Home Energy Center (MHEC). Because the gas is of such high quality, no burner modifications were required, saving hundreds of thousands of dollars in retrofit costs. By burning LFG, the MHEC can supply 100,000 pounds per hour of steam, up to 7.5 megawatts of power and chilled water to a Veterans Administration hospital, several East Tennessee State University buildings and a large civic center. The project utilizes several technologies to produce a gas that is clean, dry and free of siloxanes and volatile organic compounds: <ul> <li>SulfaTreat system removes hydrogen sulfide. A 40-foot shipping container was modified to house 100,000 pounds of clean-up media.</li> <li>Pressure Swing Absorption (PSA) unit operates on much lower pressure than traditional PSA systems.</li> <li>Air Liquide Biogas' membrane separation system removes 98 percent of the carbon dioxide and approximately half of the remaining oxygen.</li></ul> A 21,000-foot pipeline was constructed along a city right-of-way that passed through dense residential development. Johnson City launched a public awareness campaign including meetings, newspaper articles and door hangers to keep citizens along the pipeline informed. The City and Waste Management operate an educational center at the landfill where storyboards show visitors how LFG is generated, collected and processed into a cleaned gas for steam and power generation. Read more about this project in a <a href="http://www.govenergy.com/2007/pdfs/renewable/Bollinger_Renewable_track_S8.pdf">presentation</a> <a title="EPA's External Link Disclaimer" class="exit-disclaimer" href="/home/exit-epa">Exit</a> and <a href="https://www.energyservicescoalition.org/Data/Sites/1/documents/casestudies/TN-Iris_Glen_Landfill.pdf">case study</a> <a title="EPA's External Link Disclaimer" class="exit-disclaimer" href="/home/exit-epa">Exit</a> by Energy Systems Group. 11 Jackson County NC Green Energy Park jackson Sylva, North Carolina Jackson County Green Energy Park Greenhouse, Heritage crafts Jackson County Landfill 750,000 tons waste-in-place (1996) [closed] Greenhouse and Direct Thermal (blacksmithing, metal foundry, glassblowing) 40 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) Jackson County Green Energy Park, McGee Environmental, North Carolina Department of Environment & Natural Resources <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/jackson.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of blacksmith utilizing LFG at Jackson County Green Energy Park in North Carolina.' />In October 2006, Jackson County, North Carolina celebrated the initial phase of its conversion of a closed and aging landfill site into a thriving energy park that includes three professional blacksmith studios and a series of greenhouses—all using landfill gas (LFG) as fuel. During its first year, the project also provided LFG to a biodiesel refinery. For its creative use of LFG, the Jackson County Green Energy Park earned LMOP’s 2006 Project of the Year award. The project’s highlights include the following: <ul> <li>First to fire LFG in a blacksmith forge, reaching temperatures of 1,900°F.</li> <li>Over 7,000 square feet of greenhouse space heated with LFG allows county to grow its own landscaping plants.</li> <li>Implemented LFG use in glassblowing studios and metal foundry in 2009.</li> <li>Future possible phases include pottery studios, waste heat recovery and anaerobic digestion.</li> </ul> The Jackson County Green Energy Park offers students, energy professionals, engineers and tourists alike the opportunity to see and experience first-hand LFG being used as a fuel. The Park hosts an annual Youth Arts Festival each Fall, an opportunity for people of all ages to see local artists in action. The Park will have a significant impact on the local economy for many years to come and is a model for LFG utilization and renewable energy applications. 12 Jefferson City, MO Renewable Energy Project jeffersoncity Jefferson City, Missouri Columbia Water and Light, Jefferson City and Algoa Correctional Centers Utility, State Jefferson City Sanitary Landfill 5.4 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Combined Heat and Power (cogeneration) (three GE Jenbacher JMS-320 engines) 3.2 megawatts (MW) [rated capacity] and 13 million British thermal units per hour (MMBtu/hr) $480,000 to $700,000 annually by the state Ameren, Ameresco, Aquaterra Environmental Solutions, City of Columbia, GE Energy - Jenbacher Gas Engines, Northeast Energy Systems, Republic Services <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/jeffersoncity.jpg' align='right' alt='Diagram of the Jefferson City LFG energy project.' />Project developer Ameresco overcame initial barriers and assembled a winning team that developed a multi-benefit landfill gas (LFG) energy project in Jefferson City, Missouri—creating jobs, demonstrating LFG as renewable energy and benefiting the community. Efforts to utilize LFG from the Jefferson City Landfill came to life when voters in Columbia, Missouri adopted a renewable portfolio standard (RPS). The RPS requires the city’s utility to generate or purchase electricity from renewable energy sources. Ameresco proposed a winning 3.2-MW LFG renewable energy facility to help Columbia Water and Light (CW&L) meet the RPS—supplying CW&L with 2 percent of their power needs. When the State of Missouri expressed a renewed interest in obtaining renewable energy, Ameresco redirected the project. With two state-owned correctional facilities located nearby, Ameresco decided to locate the electricity generation facility at one of the correctional facilities, rather than at the landfill. This enabled heat recovered from the generators to heat water for both correctional facilities. The cogeneration opportunity required Ameresco to design and permit a 3-mile pipeline and obtain multiple easements—a "huge logistical challenge" that took nearly a year. In the end, the project created about 10 long-term jobs; reduced emissions of methane, nitrous oxide and sulfur dioxide; and gained national recognition. Former Missouri State governor Jay Nixon performed the ribbon cutting, and the project was featured at a White House meeting hosted by the Treasury Secretary and Energy Secretary. Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the project was awarded a $2.3 million grant in lieu of tax credits for creating jobs and expanding clean, renewable energy for the nation. <blockquote> For Columbia Water and Light and the City of Columbia, Missouri, purchasing the power from this project helps us comply with the City’s renewable portfolio standard by providing 2 percent of our electric portfolio. This project provides Columbia with a consistent, clean, green source of energy. —Darwin Hindman, former Mayor, Columbia, Missouri</blockquote> 14 Lanchester Landfill Gas Energy Project lanchester Narvon, Pennsylvania Dart Corporation, Advanced Food Products, L&S Sweeteners Industrial, Food Products Lanchester Landfill 14.6 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Boiler and Direct Thermal (thermal oxidizers, heaters, ovens) 3,800 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) Estimated $300,000 annually in avoided electricity costs Chester County Solid Waste Authority, Energy Developments, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PaDEP) <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/lanchester.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of 300-horsepower rotary vane compressors at the Lanchester Landfill LFG energy project in Pennsylvania.' />This 2005 LMOP Project of the Year was the first Pennsylvania landfill gas (LFG) energy project to serve multiple customers. In a year-long process, developers successfully petitioned to serve multiple customers, as well as to have LFG not be considered “natural gas,” which would have been regulated by the public utility. Construction of a 13-mile pipeline posed many challenges. The route encompassed both active and former railroad lines that traverse farms, parks, commercial and residential developments and an historic community. Many environmental and construction permits had to be acquired. Plus, land easements along the railroad were complicated by century-old deed restrictions and land rights. In the end, the completed pipeline crosses over 75 land easements and 35 roads en route to its customers. The project’s highlights include the following: <ul> <li>Dart uses LFG for 100 percent of its fuel needs, firing nine boilers, two thermal oxidizers and two ovens. LFG is utilized to provide all the electricity needed to treat and transport the gas, making this a self-reliant project.</li> <li>Advanced Food Products uses LFG in its three boilers while L&S Sweeteners uses LFG in one boiler.</li> <li>Public/private partnership between Chester County Solid Waste Authority and Granger Energy (the original project developer) overcame economic and technical difficulties.</li> <li>Millions of dollars were contributed to the local economy through the creation of more than 100 temporary construction jobs and purchase of local materials.</li> <li>A $235,000 Energy Harvest Grant from PaDEP helped purchase an engine to generate electricity needed to treat and transport the gas.</li> <li>Almost no federal tax credits were used as part of the revenue stream.</li> </ul> Granger Energy installed two independent systems that monitor LFG flow in real time. A dedicated communication line provides uninterrupted communication between the LFG processing facility and its customers. The system ensures pressure and flow to Dart, the landfill’s primary customer, who is at the end of the LFG pipeline. Granger sold its LFG recovery division to Energy Developments in 2017. 15 NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Direct-Use Project nasa Greenbelt, Maryland NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) Federal Sandy Hill Landfill 8.2 million tons waste-in-place (2000) [closed] Boiler 1,200 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) [originally 1,480 scfm] $3.5 million over 10 years on energy costs (according to NASA) CPL Systems, Prince George’s County, Toro Energy Scientists at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) jumped at a proposal by Toro Energy to reduce energy use in an environmentally sound manner without increasing operating expenses. Toro proposed to pipe landfill gas (LFG) from a nearby landfill to use as fuel to heat the campus’ buildings. With the project’s launch in 2003, the GSFC became the first federal facility to burn LFG to meet energy needs. In the project's early years, LFG provided 100 percent of the facility’s heating needs 95 percent of the time, and was expected to save the facility (and taxpayers) more than $3.5 million in energy costs over the next decade. The project’s highlights include the following: <ul> <li>5.5-mile pipeline connects Sandy Hill Landfill to NASA.</li> <li>Two boilers converted to burn LFG initially, plus a third one later.</li> <li>Sophisticated control system allows boilers to burn fuel oil, natural gas or LFG.</li> <li>LFG produces steam to heat 31 buildings on the 1,270-acre NASA campus.</li> </ul> The project’s launch also brought significant attention to NASA from top administrators. In a ribbon-cutting ceremony, both the EPA Administrator and NASA Administrator applauded the project’s success. <blockquote> Understanding and protecting our home planet is one of NASA’s key missions. NASA monitors and studies our planet from our unique vantage point in space, and our Earth Sciences Enterprise also looks for ways to improve the quality of life on Earth. This project directly benefits the Earth by removing a significant amount of methane, a greenhouse gas, from the environment. We use this energy, virtually pollution-free, for power. Hopefully, projects like these will demonstrate the clean, efficient, cost-effective use of renewable sources of energy. —Sean O’Keefe, former NASA Administrator</blockquote> <blockquote> It is very encouraging that a large federal institution like NASA is using a local landfill as a source of renewable energy. This project at Goddard Space Flight Center demonstrates how the federal government can lead the way in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and utilizing alternative energy sources. These efforts should be applauded. —Christine Todd Whitman, former EPA Administrator</blockquote> 16 Newton County Renewable Energy Business Park LFG Direct-Use Project newton Brook, Indiana Urban Forest Recyclers Industrial Newton County Landfill 49.4 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Direct Thermal (four direct-fire gas burners) 800 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) Cornerstone Environmental Group, CPL Systems, Republic Services <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/newton.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of landfill gas infrastructure at Newton County Landfill.' />The Newton County landfill gas (LFG) energy project combines environmental benefits with local business initiatives. Not only does the project reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the landfill, it also generates enough energy to entirely support the first tenant in a newly developed business park intended to be fueled solely by renewable energy. Urban Forest Recyclers, a manufacturer of wholesale egg cartons, uses LFG in the drying process. As the business park grows, energy from the landfill is expected to support the energy needs of the entire park, hence its name: Renewable Energy Park. CPL Systems and Cornerstone Environmental Group worked together to build the necessary infrastructure for the project, manage its gas collection and control system and address the permitting requirements for Republic Services, the landfill’s owner. CPL successfully designed a system to accommodate LFG flows starting at 2,000 scfm and potentially increasing to 16,000 scfm in the future, to cost-effectively expand to meet new demands of additional end users in the park while maintaining a requirement of 99 percent operational uptime. Uptime reliability is extremely important because the energy park is not planned to have any supplemental fuel source for its tenants. An 1,800-foot pipeline transports the LFG to the business park, which was developed to bring more jobs to the county after some local manufacturing jobs left the area. By locating the business park close to the landfill, the project realized huge cost savings. In addition to the benefits to local business, this project has significant environmental benefits. <blockquote> This project is an example of true sustainability. Recycled landfill gas provides energy to INIG’s plant [Urban Forest Recyclers] that uses 100 percent recycled raw material that it transforms into new useful egg cartons. —Terry Zona, General Manager, Republic Services</blockquote> 17 Ox Mountain Landfill Gas Electricity Project ox Half Moon Bay, California Alameda Municipal Power, City of Palo Alto Utility Ox Mountain Sanitary Landfill 34.1 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Reciprocating Engine (six GE Jenbacher JGS 616 GS-LL engines) 9.7 megawatts (MW) generation [11.4 MW rated capacity] Alameda Municipal Power, Ameresco, City of Palo Alto, GE Energy – Jenbacher Gas Engines, Republic Services, Western Energy Systems <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/ox.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of building that houses six LFG-fired reciprocating engines in a nonattainment area of California.' />Obtaining air permits for six reciprocating engines in a scenic nonattainment area of California seemed like an impossible task. But after two years of aggressive pursuit, project developer Ameresco secured the permits, leading to one of the largest landfill gas (LFG) electricity projects in the country. Each year, the 11.4-MW project is expected to power up to 10,000 homes in the cities of Palo Alto and Alameda. The project helped two municipal utilities—Alameda Municipal Power and the City of Palo Alto—meet renewable energy goals. By sharing the power generated by several LFG electricity projects, both utilities far exceed California's renewable portfolio standard requirement of 33 percent by 2020. In 2010, Alameda purchased 85 percent of its power from renewable energy sources and in January 2020 began providing 100 percent renewable energy to all its customers. The two utilities share renewable energy from the following landfills: <ul><li>Ox Mountain LFG energy project (11.4 MW)</li> <li>Buena Vista LFG energy project (3.18 MW)</li> <li>Keller Canyon LFG energy project (3.8 MW)</li></ul> The project serves as a model for technology that is expected to facilitate development of more large-scale LFG energy projects. The pre-combustion temperature swing adsorption (TSA) technology uses activated carbon to remove harmful contaminants before they can damage engine components, thus reducing maintenance and repairs, and making large-scale projects more economically viable. The project earned recognition as a 2009 LMOP Project of the Year. For several years, the two municipal utilities worked with project developer Ameresco to actively pursue local LFG opportunities. Previous accomplishments earned the utilities recognition as LMOP’s 2007 Energy Partners of the Year. <blockquote> Making use of this renewable energy resource reduces the amount of market power we have to purchase, which reduces the need for fossil fuel-powered electric generation in California. By burning methane, which is one of the most potent greenhouse gases, this project has the added benefit of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the landfill. —Peter Drekmeier, former Mayor of the City of Palo Alto</blockquote> 19 Seward County and National Beef Landfill Gas Energy Project seward Liberal, Kansas National Beef Packing Company Food products Seward County Landfill 2.16 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Boiler 70 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) EA Engineering, Science and Technology, Seward County Landfill <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/seward.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of landfill gas processing equipment at the Seward County Landfill project.' />After early options proved unviable, Seward County, Kansas explored selling landfill gas (LFG) to a large energy user next door—National Beef. Talks resulted in a unique LFG energy project in which LFG is piped to wastewater lagoons, collected, and burned to produce energy. Seward County’s persistence and creativity earned them recognition as LMOP’s 2008 Community Partner of the Year. The LFG energy project was a win-win solution for Seward County and National Beef. The packing plant had over 25 acres of open-air lagoons to treat 2.1 million gallons of wastewater per day. The opportunity to reduce odor and capture methane from both the landfill and the lagoons culminated in a project to cover the lagoons with a floating high-density polyethylene (HDPE) cover. Seventy (70) scfm of LFG travels 1,800 feet from the landfill to a lagoon, where the piping penetrates the HDPE cover system. The combined gas from the lagoon and the landfill is recovered to fuel boilers at National Beef. The Seward County Landfill project’s highlights include the following: <ul><li>Revenue to the landfill is expected to keep disposal costs low, benefiting 55,000 users in the region.</li> <li>Energy savings benefit National Beef and its 2,500 employees.</li> <li>Odor control by National Beef and the landfill benefits the community.</li> <li>Conversion of LFG to energy benefits the environment.</li></ul> Seward County and National Beef cooperatively financed the project. The County paid construction costs at the landfill and National Beef will pay for the LFG once the company recovers its capital cost expenditures in energy savings. Payments are based on volume and quality of LFG piped to National Beef. <blockquote> For a landfill that recorded receiving 210 tons per day, and operates in an arid part of the state averaging less than 15 inches per year of precipitation, most may have deemed passive vents more than adequate. Not so for [the Seward County] landfill director. —Sam Sunderraj, former Chief, Solid Waste Landfills Unit, Kansas Department of Health and Environment</blockquote> 21 South Kent Generating Station southkent Byron Center, Michigan Consumers Energy Utility South Kent Landfill 7.85 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Reciprocating Engine (two Caterpillar 3520Cs) 3.2 megawatts (MW) [rated capacity] Caterpillar, Energy Developments, Kent County Department of Public Works <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/southkent.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of a plant operator controlling the engine specifications remotely from a laptop computer.' />Less than 11 months after signing a contract to generate electricity, the Kent County Department of Public Works and project developer Granger Energy celebrated the official opening of the South Kent Generating Station. Kent County’s strong desire to serve the community and implement a long-term landfill gas (LFG) energy strategy led to recognition as LMOP’s 2009 Community Partner of the Year. Kent County seized the opportunity for an innovative and fast developing project when it was approached by Granger to generate electricity using LFG from the South Kent Landfill. Granger already had a power purchase agreement with Consumers Energy, with the flexibility for expansion by generating electricity from additional facilities. Granger’s existing power purchase agreement and proven record were key factors in this project’s quick fruition. To contribute to the project’s success, the County wanted to invest in the project. Thus, in a unique agreement, Granger agreed to split ownership of the generating facility. The County owned and operated the LFG collection system and owned the building that houses the electric generation system, while Granger owned the gas processing and electric equipment. By splitting the investment, both parties shared the risks and rewards of the project. Granger sold its LFG recovery division to Energy Developments in 2017. The project employed advanced technology: <ul><li>A control system helps operators monitor the vacuum, temperature, gas pressure, flow, customer operating conditions, gas quality, and equipment performance.</li> <li>Operators can remotely observe the current status of the facility, the LFG management system, and the customers.</li> <li>The electricity generating facility is integrated with the LFG management system such that the blower-flare system can automatically compensate for variations in gas demand for electrical production, ensuring maximum environmental protection.</li></ul> The County’s Department of Public Works offers facility tours, school presentations and classroom kits for school-aged children. The County’s public education/community outreach programs offer a unique and effective way to educate people about the benefits of using LFG as a source of energy. 23 SWACO Renewable Natural Gas swaco Grove City, Ohio Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), BP Energy Company Utility Franklin County Sanitary Landfill 24.3 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Renewable Natural Gas – Pipeline Injection – Vehicle Fuel 5,400 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) Aria Energy, BP Energy Company, Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/swaco.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of processing equipment at Aria's RNG project at the Franklin County Landfill.' />SWACO did not flare the valuable landfill gas (LFG) at its landfill in Franklin County, Ohio any longer than necessary—the earlier microturbine and onsite vehicle fuel projects ended in July 2012 and the new renewable natural gas (RNG) project began in February 2014. Aria Energy financed and built the facility to refine SWACO’s LFG into RNG for injection into a Columbia Gas of Ohio natural gas pipeline and transport to California. Aria Energy negotiated and holds a 20-year contract with SMUD for purchase of this pipeline-quality RNG at $10 per million British Thermal Units (MMBtu). SWACO can receive up to 22.5 percent of the annual royalties from gas sales—in the first year of the project SWACO’s revenue was about $1 million. SWACO invests much of this revenue into waste diversion programs and other community services. The project also qualifies for two fuel credit incentives: California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard and EPA’s Renewable Fuel Standard program. Representatives from Aria Energy and NiSource (the parent company of Columbia Gas) spoke about the project during an <a href="https://www.epa.gov/lmop/webinar-franklin-county-landfill-gas-pipeline-renewable-natural-gas-energy-project">EPA webinar in June 2018</a>, including how these two companies cooperatively worked together with SWACO to bring this project to fruition. The project’s highlights include the following: <ul><li> Using a membrane separation system and pressure swing absorption to clean the LFG into RNG,</li> <li> A pipeline distance from the project in Ohio to California of 2,256 miles, and</li> <li> Producing enough RNG in one day to power about a dozen homes for one year.</li></ul> <blockquote> We refine it, process it, put it in the pipeline and, in our case, we’re selling it to the West Coast. We leverage waste as a resource. —Dave Bush, former Chairman, SWACO Board of Directors</blockquote> SWACO’s previous project, the Green Energy Center, which converted the LFG to electricity for onsite use and into compressed natural gas for vehicle use, was recognized as a 2008 LMOP Project of the Year. 24 University of New Hampshire EcoLine™ Cogeneration System university Rochester, New Hampshire University of New Hampshire University Turnkey Recycling & Environmental Enterprises (TREE) 35 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Renewable Natural Gas – Pipeline Injection – Electricity (piped to existing cogeneration gas turbine plant) Approximately 2,800 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) SCS Engineers, Siemens, Solar Turbines, SulfaTreat, University of New Hampshire, Waste Management, Xebec Adsorption <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/university.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of the 12.7-mile pipeline that delivers purified LFG from the landfill to the cogeneration plant on the University of New Hampshire campus.' />In May 2009, the University of New Hampshire (UNH) reinforced its reputation for sustainability when it became the first university in the nation to use landfill gas (LFG) as its primary fuel source. In the university’s trade-marked EcoLine™ system, LFG provides up to 85 percent of the five million square-foot campus’ electricity and heat. The EcoLine™ partnership between UNH and Waste Management’s Turnkey Recycling and Environmental Enterprises (TREE) landfill brought together a wide range of engineers, scientists, equipment suppliers, consultants and regulators. The team, from several different companies, designed and integrated different components that must work seamlessly to collect, clean, and supply LFG for energy production. A gas processing plant designed by SCS Engineers removes carbon dioxide and other contaminants. Then, LFG flows through a 12.7-mile pipeline to the cogeneration plant. A fuel management system designed by EMCOR Energy Services ensures the LFG meets the fuel specifications for the existing Siemens turbine generator, which was originally designed to operate on natural gas. Finally, the cogeneration plant captures heat otherwise lost during the production of electricity and uses this energy to heat campus buildings. The project’s success has been touted nationally, including on National Public Radio. The project contributes to UNH’s efforts to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 50 percent by 2020. <blockquote> This massive project, more than four years in the making, will reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and stabilize our fuel source and costs. EcoLine™ showcases UNH’s fiscal and environmental responsibility and secures our leadership position in sustainability. —Mark W. Huddleston, former UNH President</blockquote> Learn more about this project on UNH's <a href="https://www.unh.edu/sustainability/operations/energy/ecoline ">Cogeneration and EcoLine webpage</a> <a title="EPA's External Link Disclaimer" class="exit-disclaimer" href="/home/exit-epa">Exit</a>. 25 Milner Butte Landfill and Idaho Power Company milner Burley, Idaho Idaho Power Company Utility Milner Butte Landfill 4.2 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Reciprocating Engine (two Siemens SGE-56HM “locomotive” engines) 1.55 megawatts (MW) generation [2.6 MW rated capacity] Industrial-Irrigation Services, SCS Engineers, Siemens In May 2018, two Siemens gas engines began generating environmentally beneficial electrical power in a landfill gas (LFG) energy project at the Milner Butte Landfill in Burley, Idaho. The regional landfill is owned and operated by Southern Idaho Solid Waste (SISW), a district that serves seven counties. The landfill accepts about 250,000 tons of waste per year from 15 transfer stations. From 2009 to 2018, SISW had captured methane and flared it to limit the amount of the powerful greenhouse gas released into the atmosphere. However, the district decided to seize the opportunity to utilize its LFG as an energy fuel source instead of simply burning it. “We saw this gas and realized we were just wasting it by burning it for no productive use,” said SISW’s environmental manager, Nate Francisco. The 2018 project was the result of four years of planning. Thirty pipelines from various areas and levels of landfill cells collect and deliver between 650 and 700 standard cubic feet per minute of LFG to the energy facility. Before reaching the engines, the gas passes through a conditioning skid, which removes moisture and pollutants that would be harmful to the electricity generating equipment. The two Siemens SGE-56HM gas engine sets were specifically built for LFG power applications and integrate advanced technology and design into the cylinder heads, valves, camshafts, and turbochargers. Large swamp coolers improve the system’s operational efficiency, blowing cold air directly on the engines and the engine intakes. The renewable electricity is sold to Idaho Power through a 20-year power purchase agreement and benefits the community as a low-cost source of power. The project’s highlights include the following: <ul><li> The $7.8 million lease-to-own project is estimated to pay for itself in 10 years and will generate approximately $36 million in revenue over the next 20 years.</li> <li> The engines can each produce about 1.3 MW; a third engine is planned to be installed within five years, which will bring project capacity up to 5 MW of power.</li> <li> The engines are expected to remain in operation for 20 to 30 years.</li></ul> <blockquote> The Milner Butte Landfill project represents the future of distributed power. This plant assists the local community with its power needs while being environmentally responsible. —Chris Nagle, North American Regional Director for Siemens Gas Engines</blockquote> Watch a video "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Jgn8dGOh0Y&feature=youtu.be">Landfill Gas to Energy, Milner Butte Landfill, Southern Idaho Solid Waste</a>" <a title="EPA's External Link Disclaimer" class="exit-disclaimer" href="/home/exit-epa">Exit</a> about this project on YouTube. 26 New River Clean Energy Facility in Raleigh County, WV newriver Beckley, West Virginia American Electric Power Utility Raleigh County SWA Landfill 3.7 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Reciprocating Engine (two Caterpillar 3520 engines) 1.3 megawatts (MW) generation [3.2 MW rated capacity] Carlson Environmental Consultants, Caterpillar, Houston Services Industries In March 2017, the Raleigh County Solid Waste Authority (RCSWA) began generating renewable electricity using landfill gas (LFG) produced at its Raleigh County SWA landfill. The New River Energy Facility was developed through a partnership of RCSWA and Seven Island Environmental Solutions, a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. Since 2009, LFG had been burned in a flare to reduce the release of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. In 2015, RCSWA decided to use the LFG for sustainable energy generation instead. “This new project is a much healthier, much safer resource than what was being done in the past,” said John Wooton, RCSWA Chairman. A network of more than 20 wells installed throughout the landfill captures approximately 450 standard cubic feet per minute of LFG, which the facility dries, cleans and compresses before it is piped to two reciprocating engines for combustion. The 20-cylinder Caterpillar 3520 engine/generator sets convert captured LFG into electricity, which is fed directly into the power grid for use by the immediate local community. The New River Clean Energy facility and transmission lines are designed to handle additional engine/generator sets upon future expansion of the wellfield. The project’s highlights include the following: <ul><li> Collecting gas from a newly-constructed waste cell,</li> <li> Incorporating horizontal collectors, and</li> <li> Managing compaction and moisture to maximize gas production. </li></ul> <blockquote> RCSWA is an integrated solid waste management facility that prides itself on leading the state in the waste management industry. The addition of this green energy project is another logical step for the prudent management of our landfill gas. —James Allen, Executive Director, RCSWA</blockquote> 32 Vogel Disposal Vehicle Fuel Projects vogel Evans City, Pennsylvania Peoples Natural Gas, Vogel Holding Utility; Industry Seneca Landfill Inc. 11 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Renewable Natural Gas – Pipeline Injection and Local Use – Vehicle Fuel 2,060 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) Air Liquide Biogas; Cummins Power Generation, InsightFuel, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Vogel Disposal Service Vogel Disposal began beneficially using landfill gas (LFG) from its Seneca Landfill in western Pennsylvania to generate electricity via a small engine in 2008. In 2011, Vogel expanded the project to begin cleaning a portion of the LFG to pipeline quality for delivery to a Peoples Natural Gas pipeline about 1.5 miles away. The renewable natural gas (RNG) plant uses membrane and pressure swing adsorption technologies as part of the gas clean-up process. In June 2018, Vogel became the first company in Pennsylvania to use its own LFG to fuel its own waste collection vehicles (38 vehicles as of June 2019). But their renewable compressed natural gas (RCNG), named Lego-V, is not just for internal use—the fast-fill station located at the landfill is available to other local fleets as well (waste vehicles, buses, delivery vehicles). The Lego-V project’s highlights include: <ul><li> Having a convenient location next to the landfill has allowed Vogel to convert more of its fleet to CNG vehicles faster than otherwise planned.</li> <li> Opening a public fast-fill RCNG station with a low, stable price compared to diesel fuel is also encouraging other nearby fleet owners to convert diesel fleets to CNG. </li> <li> Receiving funding from Pennsylvania’s Alternative and Clean Energy (ACE) and Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant (AFIG) programs and revenue based on EPA’s Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program.</li> <li> Constructing a “virtual pipeline” that will transfer RCNG to two additional Vogel fueling stations via truck and tube trailer. </li></ul> Vogel Disposal has won awards for their environmental sustainability efforts from organizations such as the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA), the Professional Recyclers of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania DEP. <blockquote> Across all the Vogel companies, we want to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lowering our carbon footprint. It’s simply the right thing to do. Now we also achieve the economic benefit of producing RCNG to fuel our vehicles and sell into the market. It’s a closed loop and a win-win for us. —Ed Vogel, Jr., Vice President, Vogel Holding Inc. and Seneca Landfill</blockquote> 36 Altamont Landfill Gas to Liquefied Natural Gas Project altamont Livermore, California Waste Management, Inc. (WM) Solid Waste and Remediation Altamont Sanitary Landfill 36.8 million tons waste-in-place (2004) Alternative Fuel (liquefied natural gas) 2,500 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) California Energy Commission (CEC), Cornerstone Environmental Group, LLC, Guild Associates, Inc., Linde LLC, Waste Management, Inc. <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/altamont_0.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of three tanks that can store 45,000 gallons of LNG for use by garbage trucks.' />On November 2, 2009, WM officially opened a high-tech fuel plant that demonstrates the viability of landfill gas (LFG) as an alternative transportation fuel. Each day, the plant processes 3 million cubic feet of LFG, yielding 13,000 gallons of liquefied natural gas (LNG) that will fuel 300 garbage trucks. The plant is one of the largest LFG-to-LNG plants in the world and will supply 4 million gallons of LNG per year. The project's opening follows nearly 10 years of research and development between WM and project partner Linde North America. Linde built the plant based on technology patented by the Gas Research Institute. WM and Linde expect the project to demonstrate and validate the technology and its positive environmental impact. Using LNG in WM garbage trucks replaces the need for about 2.5 million gallons of diesel fuel per year. Considering greenhouse gas emissions from production to consumption, LFG-to-LNG emits about one-seventh of the greenhouse emissions of diesel fuel, resulting in a very low-carbon transportation fuel. In addition, the LNG-powered garbage trucks emit significantly less particulate matter and nitrogen oxides. The $15.5 million project meets California directives to advance biomass as a transportation fuel and to reduce the state's greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent by 2020. Thus, four state agencies committed up to $2.4 million to this project. The project is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 30,000 tons per year. <blockquote> As California continues to move forward with its nation-leading policies to fight global warming, we need a diverse, dependable and environmentally sound mix of energy supplies to meet the needs of our people and our economy. I am pleased to see the market responding as California continues to attract and grow more clean-tech and green-tech businesses and projects just like this liquefied natural gas facility that will provide consumers with a cleaner-burning, alternative fuel source. —California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger</blockquote> <blockquote> The opening of [one of] the world's largest LFG-to-LNG plant[s] right here in California is a milestone and a testament to our commitment to reduce GHG emissions. Now that the technology has been proven, we look forward to seeing its adoption spread so more vehicles can run on garbage. —Linda Adams, Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency</blockquote> 37 EnergyXchange Renewable Energy Center energyxchange Sugar Grove, North Carolina EnergyXchange Renewable Energy Center Heritage crafts, Greenhouse Yancey-Mitchell County Landfill 385,000 tons waste-in-place (1994) Boiler and Direct Thermal (furnaces and kilns) 37.5 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) More than $1 million dollars for artists Blue Ridge Resource Conservation & Development Council, North Carolina Department of Environment & Natural Resources Glass blowing furnaces, a pottery kiln, and greenhouses dedicated to preserving rare and native local flora—all located on a 6-acre landfill and powered by landfill gas (LFG). That's the EnergyXchange, a community-based organization established to demonstrate the responsible use of LFG as an energy resource, serve artisans, and meet local energy needs. Water heated by LFG provides heat for the greenhouse, where students learn how to propagate critical components of the local ecosystems. Glass blowers fine tune their craft over flames fueled by LFG, while potters fire their wares in an oversized kiln, also fueled by LFG. In the visitor's center, citizens learn how LFG energy projects save money and help the environment. <blockquote> The efforts of EnergyXchange have done much for the LFG energy field: proven that LFG energy projects at small landfills can be beneficial; shown the power of partnerships; drawn nationwide attention to LFG energy; spawned development in neighboring areas; and become a model for other projects. —Stan Steury, former Project Coordinator, Blue Ridge Resource Conservation & Development Council.</blockquote> Blue Ridge is one of three primary project partners, including HandMade in America and Mayland Community College. The savings to the artisans thus far exceeds $1 million, compared to what they would have paid for traditional fuel sources. Artisans pay a nominal studio fee and appreciate an ample gas supply that's expected to power them for 15 years. Due to the EnergyXchange's success, including recognition as LMOP's Community Partner of the Year in 1999, more projects of this type are being developed in the region. 38 Lancaster County LFG Energy Project with Turkey Hill Dairy lancaster Conestoga, Pennsylvania PPL Corporation Utility Creswell and Frey Farm Landfills Frey Farm Landfill: 5.3 million tons waste-in-place (2008) Combined Heat and Power (cogeneration) (two Caterpillar 3520 engines) 3.2 megawatts (MW) Caterpillar, Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority (Authority), Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PaDEP), PPL Corporation, SCS Engineers and SCS Field Services <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/lancaster.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of LFG energy plant at Frey Farm Landfill in Pennsylvania.' />What do you get when you partner a Pennsylvania manufacturer, a methane gas generator, and an energy company? The "perfect partnership," according to PPL Energy Services. The largest renewable energy partnership in Lancaster County extends the development of renewable energy by three parties who balance the needs of the public and the environment in a beneficial way. Each partner stepped up to make the project happen. The Authority voluntarily installed 20,000 feet of piping, tying together the collection systems of co-located landfills. Two Caterpillar 3520 engines, installed and operated by PPL and fueled by landfill gas (LFG), generate 3,200 kilowatts of electricity. From 2006 to 2008, boilers captured heat from the engines, generating steam for Turkey Hill Dairy—the well known maker of ice cream, milk, and tea products. The project's highlights include the following: <ul><li>Steam to Turkey Hill Dairy offset 225,000 gallons (80 percent) of diesel fuel.</li> <li>Completed in 10 months to enable Section 45 tax credits.</li> <li>Will generate power for the next 25 years.</li></ul> As a member of the Chicago Climate Exchange (CCX), the Authority is voluntarily making a legally binding commitment to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by six percent by 2010, using 2006 as a baseline. The Authority is the first public environmental services organization in the United States to become a member of the CCX—the world's first voluntary, legally binding, multi-sector market for reducing and trading greenhouse gas credits. <blockquote> The partnership between PPL, Turkey Hill Dairies, and the Lancaster County Solid Waste Authority is a perfect example of three organizations coming together for the common good. —former Rep. Gib Armstrong</blockquote> 39 Salt Lake Valley Landfill Gas Energy Project with Murray City Power saltlake Murray, Utah Murray City Power Utility Salt Lake Valley Landfill 11 million tons waste-in-place (2002) Reciprocating Engine (two 800 kW engines and one 1.6 MW engine) 3.2 megawatts (MW) DTE Biomass Energy, Landfill Energy Systems, Murray City Power <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/salt.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of LFG blower station at Salt Lake Valley Landfill in Utah.' />Persistence pays. After a disappointing initial cost/benefit analysis and a unanimous "no" vote by the city council on a proposed landfill gas (LFG) energy project, Murray City Power (MCP) could have walked away with its head down. Instead, the Utah power utility kept its chin up in its pursuit of environmental stewardship and walked away with a successful project and LMOP's 2006 Energy Partner of the Year award. MCP developed a creative time-of-use pricing mechanism that proved to be a winner for all parties. The project's power costs parallel daily and seasonal market pricing, providing pricing and cash flow advantages to MCP, while achieving financial thresholds for the facility owners over a 10-year contract. The project's highlights include the following: <ul><li>3.2 MW boosts MCP's renewable energy power supply to 8 percent of its portfolio.</li> <li>8-mile transmission line ties in with Rocky Mountain Power.</li> <li>Widespread publicity, including local, regional, and national audiences.</li> <li>American Public Power Association's E.F. Scattergood System Achievement Award, the highest public power honor in the United States and Canada.</li></ul> At the grand opening, more than 100 people heard speakers including representatives from EPA Region 8, the Utah Governor's Energy Advisor, and the CEO of DTE Biomass Energy. The project's success led to interest by other municipalities, including Logan, Utah and Fallon, Nevada. <blockquote> The project is enhancing the recovery of methane from the landfill, benefiting the air quality in the Salt Lake Valley, as well as capturing the energy value of the gas with conversion to usable electricity. —Gary Merrill, General Manager, MCP</blockquote> 41 Southeastern Chester County Refuse Authority (SECCRA) Landfill Gas Energy Project seccra Chester County, Pennsylvania PJM Interconnection, LLC Utility SECCRA Landfill 1.8 million tons waste-in-place (2008) Reciprocating Engine (one Caterpillar 3516 870-kW engine and one GE-Jenbacher 20-cylinder engine) 1.9 megawatts (MW) American Environmental Group, Blazosky Associates, Inc., Caterpillar, Concord Engineering Group, DCO Energy, GE Energy - Jenbacher Gas Engines, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Roman Consulting, SECCRA <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/southeastern.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of control panel.' />Five years of planning by a determined staff led to a successful self-developed landfill gas (LFG) energy project. Armed with the capital to finance their own project, SECCRA Power forged ahead and developed this LFG energy project without the assistance of a third-party developer. SECCRA and the community reaped economic benefits that exceeded expectations. The staff's determination and the project's success earned the project recognition as a 2007 LMOP Project of the Year. After evaluating direct use, pipeline, and electricity generation, planners chose electricity generation. To realize the best rate for electricity sales, SECCRA Power became a member of PJM Interconnection, a regional transmission organization (RTO) that coordinates the movement of wholesale electricity. Ultimately, the project included installation of a gas collection system in the landfill, a generator that runs on LFG, a power line connection to the grid, and an electronic monitoring system. The project's highlights include the following financial benefits: <ul><li>Gross income is expected to be $500,000 in 2007.</li> <li>Initial investment of $3.2 million is expected to be paid off in eight years.</li> <li>Planned expansion is expected to gross an additional $500,000 per year, reducing payoff to four years.</li> <li>Sale of renewable energy credits generated $83,000.</li> <li>Sales in real-time wholesale market averaged $35,000 per month.</li> <li>Designation as a 'capacity unit' is expected to generate $7,000 per month.</li> <li>Added an additional engine in 2008, increasing total capacity to 1.9 MW.</li></ul> SECCRA hired a public relations firm to plan and publicize the grand opening and the production of locally generated green power. Radio and numerous print outlets ran the success story. SECCRA even filmed a commercial that will be used as part of a future cable television campaign. Response to the stories was so good that SECCRA received several requests from nearby residents to purchase green energy directly from the landfill. <blockquote> The electricity we're producing is considered green energy because we're using a renewable resource. As long as the landfill is in operation—and for about 15 years afterward—there will be enough landfill gas to make a significant amount of electricity. —Richard Cairns, Chairman, SECCRA Board of Directors</blockquote> 40 Sioux Falls Landfill and POET Ethanol Direct-Use Project siouxfalls Sioux Falls, South Dakota POET Ethanol Production Sioux Falls Regional Sanitary Landfill 10.2 million tons waste-in-place (2008) Boiler (steam for ethanol production) 1,250 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) Mickelson & Company, LLC, POET, TerraPass, Inc., Sioux Falls Regional Sanitary Landfill, Unison Solutions Inc. <img src='/sites/production/files/2016-07/sioux.jpg' align='right' alt='Aerial photo of the landfill site, where the city expanded and improved the LFG collection system, thus doubling the amount of LFG recovered.' />With continually increasing flows of landfill gas (LFG) from the city landfill, Sioux Falls investigated how to utilize the gas for energy rather than flaring it. A 2006 feasibility study investigated whether the increasing LFG flow should be used for energy production at a nearby ethanol production plant or whether it should be used to generate electricity. Based on study results, the city chose to capture, clean, and pipe the LFG for energy utilization at the ethanol plant. In 2009, the ethanol plant began utilizing the LFG in a wood waste-fuel boiler to generate additional energy. LFG displaces about 10 percent of the plant's natural gas consumption, which is expected to increase to 30 percent by 2025. The project earned recognition as a 2009 LMOP Project of the Year. The city doubled the amount of LFG collected by expanding and improving the gas collection system, its associated controls, and a leachate system. Dual-phase collection wells collect LFG and pump leachate out of the active collection area. A new data acquisition and control system optimizes LFG recovery and processing and allows the city to monitor and adjust LFG in real time. LFG collection efficiency is about 90 percent. Because of the pending South Dakota winter, the compressor building was built before (instead of after) installation of the system that filters, dries, and compresses the gas. Thus, the treatment skid had to be placed inside the already-constructed building. In addition, the city's pipeline contractor utilized a Fast Fusion welder to help install 11 miles of pipeline in just two months, before snow covered the ground. The city decided to install and maintain ownership of the pipeline because the feasibility study showed that city ownership was the most viable of the ownership options. Funds for the pipeline came from tipping fees. With revenue from LFG sales and carbon credits, the project is expected to pay for itself in four years. Following that, the city expects to fund improvements and additional programs at the landfill. <blockquote> This is truly a win-win for the City of Sioux Falls, POET, our community and customers of the landfill. The City feels fortunate to be able to make a significant impact on the environment and improve revenue at the landfill at the same time. —Dave Munson, former Mayor, Sioux Falls</blockquote> 33 Redwood Landfill and Marin Clean Energy redwood Novato, California Marin Clean Energy (MCE) Utility Redwood Landfill 15.8 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Reciprocating Engine (two Caterpillar 3520+ models) 3.3 megawatts (MW) generation [3.9 MW rated capacity] Caterpillar, T.V. John & Son, Waste Management <div><img src='/sites/production/files/2020-07/mceredwood.jpg' align='right' alt='Exhaust treatment at Waste Management's Redwood Landfill Gas to Energy Plant in Novato, CA.' /> Used with permission from MCE. Exhaust treatment at Waste Management's Redwood Landfill Gas to Energy Plant in Novato, CA.</div>In September 2017, Marin Clean Energy (MCE) and Waste Management opened a landfill gas (LFG) energy plant to provide renewable electricity to more than 5,000 customers in Marin and Napa counties and six cities. Before this, the facility flared LFG but now is able to convert the LFG into sustainable and reliable electricity. MCE entered into a 20-year power purchase agreement with Waste Management, who owns and operates the landfill. At $14.5 million, this facility cost Waste Management more to build than the company’s other LFG electricity projects, due to having to meet California’s strict environmental regulations. A network of more than 100 wells installed in the landfill collect the LFG, which passes through a treatment system that compresses, cools, and filters the gas to remove moisture, particulates, and other pollutants that would be harmful to the electricity generating equipment. The processed LFG is piped to two reciprocating engines that generate renewable electricity. The project's highlights include: <ul><li> A modern emissions system with advanced scrubbers and other mechanisms that remove carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide from the engines’ exhaust, making it one of the lowest emission facilities of its kind in the nation.</li> <li> The plant is expected to remain in operation for at least 20 years.</li> <li> More than 60 acres of solar arrays would be needed to generate the amount of electricity this LFG energy project can produce.</li></ul> <blockquote> This type of innovation and ingenuity complements our intermittent renewable energy sources, like solar and wind, to put more pollution-free power on the grid around the clock. Renewable technologies such as this landfill gas-to-energy plant help us achieve our mission to address climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while providing local economic and workforce benefits. —Dawn Weisz, CEO of MCE</blockquote> Watch a video "<a href="https://youtu.be/haexLn9RX4M">Redwood Landfill Gas-to-Energy Partnership</a>" <a title="EPA's External Link Disclaimer" class="exit-disclaimer" href="/home/exit-epa">Exit</a> about this project on YouTube. 34 Shreveport Landfill Renewable Natural Gas shreveport Keithville, Louisiana University of California Education Woolworth Road Landfill (Shreveport Landfill) 11.1 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Renewable Natural Gas – Pipeline Injection – Vehicle Fuel 2,050 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) Element Markets, Mas Energy, SCS Engineers <div><img src='/sites/production/files/2020-07/tactical.jpg' align='right' alt='Purification system by Tactical Controls at Woolworth Road Landfill.' /> Used with permission from <a href="http://www.tactical-controls.com/">Tactical Controls</a>.</div>Across 10 campuses, five medical centers, and six cogeneration plants, the University of California (UC) consumes about 14 million British thermal units (Btus) of natural gas per year, which accounts for about half of UC’s carbon footprint. The university is working toward carbon neutrality, setting its sights on a net zero footprint by the year 2025. To help meet that target, UC aims to source 40 percent of its natural gas from renewable sources within the same timeframe. To reduce its carbon footprint, UC financed the construction of a facility outside of Shreveport, Louisiana to convert landfill gas (LFG) from the city-owned Woolworth Road Landfill into renewable natural gas (RNG). The project became operational on October 1, 2018. Woolworth Road Landfill had two previous LFG energy projects between 1993 and 2012. With this new project in operation, pipeline-quality RNG produced from the LFG is injected into the nearby Enable Midstream Partners interstate natural gas pipeline. At the plant’s full inlet capacity of 2,650 scfm of LFG, this regulatory-certified RNG supply will offset about 5 percent of the natural gas consumed at UC’s campuses. The RNG facility, designed and constructed by SCS Energy, includes a processing plant at the landfill, as well as a separate compression plant a few miles away where the pipeline transitions to the local gas company’s system. Tactical Controls provided the plant’s computer control systems, which log data and coordinate the compression and purification equipment into a unified control system between the two sites. Operations can be performed from workstations at either site and can be viewed remotely. SCS Energy is contracted to operate and maintain the plant. The project includes the following technologies: <ul><li>LFG refrigeration</li> <li>LFG compression via flooded-screw compressor</li> <li>Membranes for carbon dioxide removal</> <li>Product gas compressor</li> <li>Regenerative thermal oxidizer</li></ul> Element Markets coordinates the process of selling the renewable identification numbers (RINs) generated by this project under EPA’s Renewable Fuel Standard program. A portion of natural gas is extracted down the pipeline for the creation of vehicle fuel, equivalent to the amount of RNG specified as being used to generate RINs. 35 Seabreeze Environmental Landfill Renewable Natural Gas Project seabreeze Angleton, Texas OCI NV Industry Seabreeze Environmental Landfill 23.7 million tons waste-in-place (2018) Renewable Natural Gas – Pipeline Injection – Vehicle Fuel and Directed Biogas 2,400 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) Curington Construction, DTE Biomass Energy, Waste Connections – Central Region <div><img src='/sites/production/files/2020-07/seabreeze.jpg' align='right' alt='Photo of RNG processing plant at Seabreeze Environmental Landfill.' /> Used with permission from DTE Biomass Energy.</div>In May 2017, DTE Biomass Energy (DTE) acquired a planned landfill gas (LFG) energy project at the Seabreeze Environmental Landfill near Houston, Texas. Construction on the new renewable natural gas (RNG) plant began June 2017 and the project was online by April 2018. In 2017, DTE entered an offtake agreement with OCI NV, a producer and distributor of natural gas-based fertilizers and industrial chemicals including methanol. In 2018, OCI NV completed construction of a new 5,000 metric ton per day methanol plant in Beaumont, Texas, about 100 miles away from the Seabreeze Landfill that uses biogas from multiple sources to produce bio-methanol. With more than 20 million tons of waste in place and only half-full, the Seabreeze Landfill offered a sizeable, reliable flow of LFG. To start, the landfill is feeding approximately 2,400 scfm of LFG to the processing plant but will be able to provide 4,000 scfm at full capacity. <blockquote> There are several different stakeholders who benefit. The local community, for one. We’re capturing and converting [a] pretty harmful greenhouse gas into useable energy.…We brought permanent jobs into the area. As for utility and renewable energy consumers, we’re bringing them a product they need or want. The landfill owners themselves also benefit. We share the economic benefits of these projects with them—and they can be owned by big companies all the way down to municipal-owned operations. —Kevin Dobson, Vice President of Business Development, DTE Biomass Energy</blockquote> Watch a video “<a href="https://vimeo.com/366568894">Seabreeze Pipeline Quality Gas</a>” <a title="EPA's External Link Disclaimer" class="exit-disclaimer" href="/home/exit-epa">Exit</a> about this project on vimeo.