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Biomethane: A Burning Issue
Recovering biomethane from a landfill can mean significant savings for nearby industries and a cleaner world for everyone. EcoEnergy is pioneering just such a project, EcoPort, for the City of Freeport, Illinois.
According to Bryan Johnson, Director of EcoEnergy BioFuel Development, "We shared with the City our expertise and track record in developing various commercial energy uses for landfill methane gas. We are working with CJ Vitner’s, a leading local snack food company, to harness the associated power. We expect to develop and complete this project in 2008, giving Vitner’s a seamless operation along with substantial cost savings and a greener energy approach."
Before completing a biomethane initiative, many steps must be completed: gas purchase agreements, the design and installation of the landfill gas collection system and gas processing/conditioning system, and finally the selection and installation of the final end-use system.
To simplify the entire process, EcoEnergy will purchase the landfill methane gas from the City and assume all responsibilities for development and operation. Bryan explains, "We understand the importance of handling sensitive concerns, such as agency compliance, along with any other matters that may arise. EcoEnergy is working closely with the City to cover all potential issues."
He adds, "As companies strive to employ sustainable systems and 'think green,' biomethane is becoming more mainstream, both for electric generation and direct fuel use – piping gas directly rather than converting it. Many large companies, including car manufacturers, use significant amounts of landfill gas. More than 375 landfill-gas projects are operational in 38 states, reaping financial and environmental benefits for the communities they serve. Tapping biomethane gas from wastewater treatment and agricultural applications is also growing. If it's not utilized, it's a wasted source of energy."
EcoEnergy is well equipped to help coordinate any of these "burning issues," applying the latest technologies and using experience gained from previous projects, both traditional and alternative.
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Energy Development:
High, open spaces
Community:
Teaching new technologies
Wind:
What's old is new again
BioFuel:
Biomethane - a burning issue
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