Unlocking the Power of Biogas: How Columbus and Cincinnati are Revolutionizing Wastewater Treatment
In the face of the growing climate crisis, two of Ohio’s largest cities are leading the charge in transforming their wastewater operations into beacons of sustainability. Thanks to a significant influx of federal funding, the Columbus Department of Public Utilities and the Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati are embarking on ambitious biogas projects that will slash greenhouse gas emissions, reduce energy costs, and pave the way for a more resilient and environmentally-friendly future.
Harnessing the Power of Waste: Biogas Projects Take Center Stage
Biogas projects at the Southerly and Jackson Pike wastewater treatment plants in Columbus are poised to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by a staggering 34,000 and 13,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents, respectively. That’s the equivalent of taking 10,100 passenger vehicles off the road, a testament to the incredible impact these initiatives can have.
“Climate change is upon us, right? And so we have an opportunity to actually make a difference,” said Stacia Eckenwiler, the assistant administrator for the Department of Public Utilities’ division of sewers and drains. Columbus’s wastewater utility accounts for a significant portion of the city’s overall emissions, nearly 9% of the nearly 11 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents in 2019.
The Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati is also embracing the power of biogas, with plans to use it to generate electricity and provide heating for its Little Miami Wastewater Treatment Plant. By capturing and utilizing the biogas generated during the wastewater treatment process, these cities are not only reducing their carbon footprint but also unlocking a valuable renewable energy source.
From Waste to Resource: The Transformative Power of Anaerobic Digestion
Sewage treatment plants have long struggled with the disposal of sludge and biosolids, often relying on costly and environmentally-taxing methods like incineration and landfilling. However, the process of anaerobic digestion is revolutionizing the way these facilities manage their waste.
Anaerobic digestion is a natural process that breaks down organic matter, such as sewage sludge, into biogas – a mix of flammable methane and carbon dioxide. Unlike the methane from natural gas, which is a fossil fuel, the methane from wastewater sludge is considered a clean, renewable energy source when used for electricity and heating.
“The methane in natural gas is extracted from subsurface rock formations from a depleting source that cannot be replenished,” explained Diana Christy, the director of the Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati. “In contrast, biogas is renewable, in the sense that humans always will produce waste.”
By harnessing the power of this biogas, the cities of Columbus and Cincinnati are transforming their wastewater treatment plants into “resource recovery facilities,” as Eckenwiler aptly described them. This shift not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also provides a sustainable and cost-effective energy source for the cities.
The Inflation Reduction Act: A Catalyst for Wastewater Innovation
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has emerged as a game-changer for these biogas projects, providing a significant economic incentive through changes to the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Previously, the ITC primarily benefited individuals and organizations that paid taxes. The IRA, however, now allows government units and nonprofits to receive reimbursements when projects are completed.
“The impact of a direct cash payment from the federal government will serve to reduce the cost burden on local ratepayers as the sewer district reinvests in infrastructure to maintain levels of service and to improve the sewer system in order to better serve the community and to comply with the Clean Water Act,” said Christy.
To qualify for the expanded ITC, biogas projects must begin construction by the end of 2023. The law also provides a “safe harbor” if there’s a commitment to purchase at least 5% of the necessary equipment and it is in significant fabrication by or before December 31, 2023.
The Jackson Pike project in Columbus is already under construction and expected to be completed by next year, while the Southerly project is on track to start construction this year and be finished by 2028. Cincinnati’s Little Miami plant is also set to begin construction this year under a design-build contract.
The ITC could provide rebates of up to 50% for these projects, including bonuses for paying prevailing wages, using domestic content, and being located in or near an “energy community.” For Cincinnati’s project, the ITC could potentially provide up to $50 million in reimbursements, significantly reducing the cost burden on local ratepayers.
Unlocking a Sustainable Future: The Broader Trend Towards Biogas Utilization
The success of these biogas projects in Ohio is part of a broader trend towards wastewater plants using biogas for energy production. Karine Rougé, the CEO of Veolia North America’s Municipal Water services, has observed a growing interest in local energy generation across Europe, driven by factors like prolonged droughts and the war in Ukraine.
In the United States, the primary driver has been the rising cost of energy, which has made onsite biogas generation an increasingly attractive option. Additionally, a desire to boost resilience and address grid issues in certain states has further fueled the adoption of biogas and other on-site energy solutions.
While onsite biogas projects may not be cost-effective for all smaller sewer utilities, the IRA’s deadline has sparked numerous conversations with Veolia’s clients. Even if a wastewater authority doesn’t begin a project immediately, Rougé notes that other funding support, such as state revolving funds under the Clean Water Act, may be available to support these transformative initiatives.
Conclusion: Pioneering a Sustainable Water Future
The biogas projects in Columbus and Cincinnati are not only reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs but also paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient water management approach. These cities are leading by example, demonstrating how wastewater treatment facilities can become hubs of renewable energy production and resource recovery.
As Eckenwiler eloquently stated, “Wastewater treatment plants are complex and technical places. They’re also very, very cool resource recovery facilities.” Through the strategic use of federal funding and the power of biogas, these Ohio cities are revolutionizing the water sector and setting a standard for sustainable water management that others can follow.
By visiting Joint Action for Water, readers can further explore the latest advancements, success stories, and advocacy strategies in the water and sanitation space. Together, we can continue to drive meaningful change and build a more resilient, equitable, and environmentally-conscious future for our communities.
