A second by-product of waste decomposition is landfill gas, which is similar to natural gas. This gas is comprised primarily of methane, carbon dioxide and balance gases. Landfill gas is flammable, requiring landfills to conduct special management programs. The NTSWA currently has a collection program and will soon be using landfill gas for a co-generation project. What was originally a landfill hazard and smelly problem, is now a benefit to our integrated solid waste management system.
| The landfill gas is actively collected by placing a vacuum on the landfill. Gas wells are
drilled into the wastes and collection pipes are assembled into a network. The gas
currently moves through this network to a 30 foot high stack flaring unit. This flare burns
the gases, cutting down on odor and explosion potentials. The unit burns at
approximately 1600 - 1800 degrees Fahrenheit and is closely monitored.
In the near future, NTSWA will be constructing a co-generation facility which will produce both hot water and electric. The hot water will be used to heat nearby buildings and the electric can be sold to the local electric company to power homes and businesses in the region. |