Named the SX Renewable Energy Generation Facility, the 3.2MW landfill gas-to-electric facility is expected to be operating by summer 2011.
Fred Eckert, senior vice president of business development at Energenic, said: “In addition to ensuring that Sussex County will be able to enjoy a reliable and sustainable energy future, this project underscores Energenic’s commitment to identifying and pursuing energy solutions that fit our changing energy landscape.
“New Jersey is at the forefront of the renewable energy movement and we are proud to do our part to contribute to that tradition.”
The project includes a gas treatment and conditioning system, two Caterpillar 3520 engine generator sets, radiators, a gas blower skid, high-voltage electrical distribution and switchgear equipment, controls and interconnection piping and wiring. After completion, the system will be connected to the local electric power grid to sell the energy produced from the facility.
More commonly called ‘landfill gas’, methane gas is produced in landfills when organic waste decomposes in the absence of oxygen. The methane is extracted from wells installed in the landfill and is fed into a series of pipes that deliver the gas to a power source. The methane is recovered and used as an energy source, eliminating the greenhouse effect of fugitive methane gas emissions.
A typical landfill will collect the methane and burn it off in a flare to reduce odors and buildup of the gas. If sufficient quantities are generated by the landfill, the methane can then be used to produce renewable energy, as the Sussex County project will do.
