FEDS FUND LANDFILL GAS-TO-POWER PROJECT

Expect stories like this to become commonplace in 2008, thanks to the new federal energy bill that incentivizes biofuels. But where are the incentives for wind and solar?

Senator Clinton: ‘‘These funds are a wise investment in the future of Western New York, and will benefit the region’s people, economy and infrastructure…’’

The profit range for the plant is very wide because green credits and other incentive programs are uncertain. Green credits or Renewable Energy Production Incentives are appropriated annually. County officials can’t know exactly how much Renewable Energy Production Incentive money will be appropriated because it varies from administration to administration.

Which is why Congress needs to take the initiative. Set long terms for production tax credits (PTCs) and investment tax credits (ITCs) so a baseline certainty for New Energy producers exists. And pass a national Renewable Electricity Standard (RES) extending through 2020 or longer so market demand is certain.

Schematic of landfill methane project. (click to enlarge)

Grant to fund conversion of methane into energy
December 29, 2007 (Buffalo News)
and
County methane project lands funds
Dennis Phillips, December 28, 2007 (Dunkirk Observer)

WHO
Sens. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y), Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.), County Executive Greg Edwards

WHAT
A 6.4 megawatt methane gas-to-energy project will get $492,000 from funds allocated in the recently passed federal energy bill.

WHEN
The federal bill with the funds for the project was passed and signed into law in December. The funding was announced publicly December 27 by the 2 NY Senators.

Digesters can also turn animal waste to gas-fired electricity. (click to enlarge)

WHERE
The landfill is in Ellery, NY. It is a Chautauqua County project.

WHY
- The plant will generate electricity from methane gas exuded in the landfill.
- The grant will fund plant infrastructure.
- The arrangements for the interconnection node that will get the electricity generated at the landfill plant onto the National Grid have yet to be completed.
- The plant and grid connection is expected to cost $9 to $10 million and generate $40 to $80 million over 20 years.

Details of landfill methane chemistry. (click to enlarge)

QUOTES
Senator Schumer: ‘‘These projects are crucial to fueling economic growth across Western New York and for giving local residents top-notch services in education, law enforcement and health care…By investing in these vital projects, we ensure that Western New York continues to lure new businesses and tourists to the region, while ensuring families have the first-class services they need.’’