Methane-to-energy generator commissioned in Easton, MD
By The Star Democrat.
EASTON — Easton Utilities officially commissioned a generator that converts methane gas into green energy.
“This project is mutually beneficial for the environment, our customers and the town of Easton,” said Hugh E. Grunden, president and CEO of Easton Utilities.
Easton Utilities purchased a used generator from another landfill, which created a cost-effective solution, Easton Utilities said in a press release. The expected life of the project in Easton is expected to last eight to 10 years, depending on the landfill’s ability to produce gas.
Currently, landfill gas is extracted continuously and most of the gas is sent to the generator, which can produce up to one megawatt of electricity — enough to power about 700 homes.
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), methane gas is the second most prevalent greenhouse gas emitted in the U.S. from human activities. It is one of the four greenhouse gasses the EPA has identified that traps heat in the atmosphere and contributes to climate change.
Maryland Environmental Service (MES) installed compressors at the landfill and is handling the logistics regarding supply and flow.