Date: September 4, 2008
Source: Duke Energy
Landfill Gas Project Turns Enoree Landfill into a Community Asset
The County of Greenville, along with Greenville Gas Producers, LLC, Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC, and Blanchard Machinery Company today announced the completion of the Enoree Landfill Gas to Energy Green Power Project.
Enoree will produce and sell carbon credits on an international market. It is believed to be the first United States-based landfill project validated under the Voluntary Carbon Standard (VCS). VCS certification of a carbon credit provides assurance that the emission reduction project has been independently verified to the global benchmark standard. It ensures that carbon offsets purchased by businesses and consumers can be trusted and have real environmental benefits.
Greenville Gas Producers, LLC has made a $5 million investment in the project, and Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) will purchase the power produced.
'The County of Greenville is dedicated to improving the air quality of our environment and our community,' said Butch Kirven, chairman of the Greenville County Council. 'By combining the benefits of carbon destruction, power production, and the added sale of carbon credits, this project will be an asset to the community for decades to come.'
'Renewable energy is an important part of our energy future,' added Steve Smith, Duke Energy manager of wholesale accounts. 'This project demonstrates Duke Energy's commitment to provide South Carolina with reliable, affordable and renewable energy.'
The Enoree project captures the gas produced through the natural decay of Greenville County's household trash and uses two Caterpillar(R) G3520 engines to convert it into electricity. This project can generate about 3.2 megawatts of electricity, which is equivalent to powering about 2,000 average-sized homes annually. Landfill gas is one of the most economical renewable options available in South Carolina and it uses proven technology.
Landfill gas, largely methane, is produced when organic materials in large landfills decompose. This greenhouse gas is 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide at trapping heat in the atmosphere. It is a major contributor to global warming. Methane gas must be burned as a waste product or captured and used as a fuel.
Greenville Gas Producers, LLC
William Brinker - (704) 507-2881
County of Greenville
Bob Mihalic - (864) 467-7055
Duke Energy
Jason Walls - (864) 885-4204
Duke Energy 24-hour media line 704-382-8333
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