The project is located on the joint base of the US Army and Air Force, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, and is expected to meet 50% of its 13MW peak power demand.
Doyon Utilities CEO Dan Gavora said that from the beginning of 2013 federal agencies are required to use at least 7.5% of energy generated from renewable sources, GE’s technology will help convert the land fill gas into energy for the US military base besides revenue for the Anchorage municipal utility.
"In addition, the plant will help the military improve its energy security and move closer to its renewable energy target," added Gavora.
The utility signed a power purchase agreement with the municipality under which, it will own and operate the facility as well as buy the gas produced for at least the next 20 years, with an option to extend up to 40 years.
The military is expected to make savings of $30m during the lifetime of the project.
GE regional sales leader of gas engines for North America Roger George concluded, "Our Jenbacher gas engines provide the fuel flexibility needed to accommodate the use of alternative fuels such as landfill gas while offering high levels of electrical efficiency."