Landfill to start generating power in the spring of 2009
For over a decade the idea of using the methane gas that is a product of the rotting garbage rather than just burning it off has been discussed, now it appears to finally be a reality, New Toledo plant will convert methane into energy. It’s nice to see this will no longer be a “someday” situation. According to the EPA, landfills are one of the largest sources of methane emissions in the United States, (34 percent) and as of this summer it was reported that there are 423 landfill gas-to-energy plants in the US that each generate about 1,200 megawatts of power. Another 560 landfills in the US would be able to make use of this technology.
Methane releases into the environment does have an impact on the greenhouse effect, it’s stated to be the second-biggest man-made contributor to global warming behind carbon dioxide. So, kudos to all of those involved, especially those at the Department of Solid Waste who did not give up on this as a goal.
This is really good news!
December 10th, 2007 at 9:58 amWe don’t have to worry about losing power for our addictive computer systems. LONG LIVE THE ENERGY POWER!
December 10th, 2007 at 10:01 amThis sounds like a great idea. I think the best thing we can do for the future is cobble together as many small, low impact energy sources as we can find. Add collecting methane from waste dumps to wind energy, solar power, etc. and we’ve got a start. If we could get the government to stop looking up the back-ends of cows and concentrate on more creative solutions we’re well on our way.
PS: Did you know that TARTA has a Hydrogen-Biodesiel hybrid bus?
http://www.tartabiodiesel.org/
December 10th, 2007 at 2:52 pmA very positive step forward
December 10th, 2007 at 9:42 pmditto@the above
December 10th, 2007 at 10:25 pmIt’s been way too long in coming…
Just think of all of the methane we’ve wasted over the last 10 years.
Unconscionable, IMNHO. . .
December 11th, 2007 at 12:11 amHope this helps to reduce the cost of our utility bills.
December 11th, 2007 at 1:50 pmThey’re taking out a 24.74 million dollar loan to build this facility. I wouldn’t look forward to any bill reduction.
December 11th, 2007 at 2:54 pmCraig….there is that
December 11th, 2007 at 3:04 pm30 years of methane at a savings of two million dollars a year, even if you don’t figure in increasing utility costs works out to be 60 million dollars versus the 26 million dollar price tag – the plant pays it’s self off in savings after 13 years.
December 11th, 2007 at 3:15 pmI still wouldn’t bank on any of that savings being passed onto us.
December 11th, 2007 at 3:36 pmCan we possibly harness any of the hot air that comes from the office of the Economic Developer of Toledo on 22nd floor?
December 11th, 2007 at 11:21 pm