Garbage to Gas in Oregon

Waste management and InEnTec formed a joint venture to build a gasification facility at Waste Management’s Colombia Ridge Landfill in Arlington, Oregon. The facility will produce clean energy and fuel. Waste management is also generating about 6 megawatts of energy with its landfill gas to energy facility. Watch the NGN video about turning agricultural waste into energy to see how it’s done. Waste Management plans to invest in emerging clean technology and doubling its efforts to produce renewable energy.

Learn more: Environmental Leader

Kentucky School Goes Off Grid

A Kentucky elementary school called, Richardsville Elementary School, is set to be the first school in the country to be completely “off-grid.” Off-grid refers to when a facility, building, or home is able to generate its own electricity from renewable sources forgoing the need to tap into the traditional power grid. It also means that they will be the first net-zero energy school in the country. For starters, the school will incorporate photovoltaic (solar) roof arrays, solar water heaters, rainwater collection capabilities, and smart lighting. Every element in the school will be designed to teach children about sustainable living.

Learn more: EcoGeek

Texas Wind Energy

Texas hit an all-time high record for wind energy on March 5, 2010. Early morning reports said that 19% of the power on the grid came from wind installations. The only thing standing in Texas’ way from generating that much renewable power consistently is the infrastructure to transmit it. The state is investing right now in transmission technology and if they succeed they could help states like California and Colorado meet their Renewable Energy Standards.

Learn more: GreenBeat