When organic materials break down in the landfill they produce a variety of gases like carbon dioxide and methane. Methane, which comprises roughly 60 percent of the landfill gas, is also a powerful source of energy.
ACUA previously captured landfill gas and turned it into energy onsite which powered the entire Environmental Park with excess energy provided to the grid where it can be used to power area homes and businesses. The project saved ratepayers more than $8.5 million while in operation and prevented more than 25,602 metric tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere.
ACUA and South Jersey Industries will partner on a new project that will convert landfill gas into pipeline-quality renewable natural gas. The project will remove hydrogen sulfide and other impurities from the landfill gas then feed it into the natural gas distribution network that supplies area homes, businesses, and compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicle fueling stations. Construction is expected to begin in Summer 2023.