Clarkson, Sustainability and the Development Authority of the North Country -- the triple bottom line

The Development Authority of the North Country today announced the results of a joint effort with Clarkson University to conduct conceptual research of alternative uses of waste heat produced at the Authority’s Solid Waste Management Facility. The Authority began destroying methane gas last fall by burning the biogas and producing electricity at its Landfill Gas to Energy (LFGTE) Plant that produces electricity. The Facility was developed in cooperation with Innovative Energy Systems, and will produce 6.4 MW of electricity and 23.84 mm BTU/hour of waste heat utilizing four generator engines. Electricity from the three engines currently operating is being sold to the power grid for distribution but a use for the waste heat is yet to be identified.

Clarkson students completed preliminary assessments for two alternatives uses for the waste heat and presented their findings to the Authority’s management team in December 2009. Their analysis indicates that both options -- one for a greenhouse and the other for algae biofuel research -- could utilize all the waste heat generated by the LFGTE Plant and would provide additional environmental, community, and economic benefits, meeting the triple bottom line for sustainability.

“DANC is to be commended for its commitment to furthering its sustainability efforts,” said Clarkson University President Tony Collins. “Clarkson is excited to have the opportunity to work with this state-of-the-art facility, which shows how sustainability can complement economic development in the North Country."