SJI, Opal Fuels cut ribbon on renewable natural gas facility in Egg Harbor

Facility will capture and process landfill gas into RNG, providing renewable, lower-carbon fuel alternative to diesel and conventional natural gas

In a big step forward for the use of renewable natural gas, SJI and OPAL Fuels celebrated the ribbon cutting of their Atlantic County Utilities Authority’s Renewable Natural Gas Project Thursday in Egg Harbor Township.

The facility will capture and process landfill gas into RNG, providing a renewable, lower-carbon fuel alternative to diesel and conventional natural gas.

The RNG produced at the ACUA plant is planned to be used as transportation fuel and directly injected into the South Jersey Gas pipelines, offering RNG for the first time to supply energy to homes and businesses in the South Jersey Gas territory.

“We are thrilled to cut the ribbon on this project, which signifies another milestone for SJI,” Chet Benham, president of SJI Renewable Energy Ventures, said. “This project underscores our commitment to innovation and continuing efforts in renewable energy solutions.”

The facility is anticipated to have a nameplate capacity of 2,500 SCFM of landfill gas and is expected to produce more than 650,000 MMBtu, which is equivalent to nearly 4.6 million gallons of gas, per year of RNG.

ACUA President Matthew DeNafo obviously was thrilled.

“ACUA has consistently demonstrated its commitment to exploring and implementing technologies that transform waste into a resource and improve our environment,” he said. “This project embodies that commitment, and we’re happy to celebrate its opening alongside our wonderful partners OPAL and SJI.”

Once operational, the RNG produced at the ACUA’s solid waste landfill is also expected to reduce methane emissions from the landfill and avoid over 346,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year.

OPAL Fuels is a leader in the production, marketing, and distribution of renewable and compressed natural gas.

Adam Comora, its co-CEO, said the opening of the facility marks an important milestone in OPAL Fuels’ mission of turning waste into clean, domestic energy.

“This project reduces emissions, improves local air quality, creates jobs and strengthens American energy independence,” he said. “As we drive forward with a focus on strategic growth and operational excellence, this project serves as an example of how landfills can benefit from producing RNG by generating financial value, cutting methane emissions, and displacing diesel to decarbonize transportation.”

The process is expected to reduce the volume of methane gas combusted at the facility, resulting in a reduction in on-site emissions. The RNG project represents the first collaboration between SJI and OPAL Fuels as part of their previously announced 50/50 joint venture to develop, construct, own and operate RNG facilities.

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