Ontario’s largest RNG facility to be built in Niagara Falls
Expected to generate enough clean renewable energy from landfill waste to heat 8,750 homes across the country, the Niagara Falls RNG facility will be the largest of its kind in Ontario. It is hoped the plant will reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 48,000 tonnes.
The $42 million (€27.1 million) Niagara facility will capture biogas generated by decomposing organic waste and transforming it into RNG. Bill Walker, Associate Minister of Energy, said: “RNG is a made-in-Ontario, carbon-neutral energy source, and this investment in Niagara Falls showcases the innovative leadership of our energy sector.
“Clearly, these types of projects are not only good for the environment, but they will also contribute significantly to Ontario’s economic recovery. Developing RNG production is encouraged in our government’s Made-in-Ontario Environment Plant and we look forward to exploring further opportunities in the future.”
The Ontario Energy Board (OEB) has approved an application from natural gas distribution company Enbridge to implement a pilot voluntary RNG programme in Ontario starting in 2021. Through the programme, customers can choose to support the transition to clean energy through a small monthly contribution to purchase carbon-neutral RNG. During the first five years of the programme, Enbridge anticipates up to 28,000 customers could participate in reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 8,000 tonnes, equivalent to taking 1,600 cars off the road for one year.
Jeff Yurek, Minister of the Environment, Conservation, and Parks, said: “I want to congratulate Enbridge and private sector partners, Walker Industries and Comcor Environmental, for coming together to make this innovative RNG project possible.
“Our government knows the private sector has the capital, capability, and know-how to transform clean technology markets across Canada and we will continue to work closely with Ontario’s energy sector to find more ways to reduce GHG emissions efficiently and affordably.”