LES has invested $11.32m for the equipment, pipeline, construction, engineering and other expenses for the project, which will come online on October 14, 2013.
Earlier in April 2008, the city had called for bids to conduct the feasibility of capturing landfill gas produced naturally by the decomposition of waste for a potential power plant development.
An evaluation revealed that a site one mile east of the landfill at LES’ Terry Bundy Generating Station is suitable for installing power generation equipment.
In November 2011, LES has agreed to buy 300,000 million British thermal units of landfill gas from the city annually recovered from the Bluff Road Landfill and convert to electricity under a 20-year agreement with the city and has a 15-year extension option at the end of the agreement.
Additionally, LES has the first right to any additional gas generated in case of the potential expansion of the landfill gas project.
Lincoln city mayor Beutler said that the city, along with LES, is working on a project, which will provide several benefits ensuring a cleaner environment, a local source of energy, continued low utility rates, thereby contributing to the economic development.
"Lincoln is becoming known more and more for its high quality of life and its related commitment to sustainability, evidenced by this project as well as the new Innovation Campus Central Renewable Energy System announced last week.
"These initiatives truly are making a difference in our ability to attract research and technology-led businesses and industries that, in turn, bring high-quality jobs and increased investment across the city," added Beutler.
