By Jeffery Norman
Chief Development Officer
August 2022
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A story from
Renewables
Algonquin-Liberty recently acquired Sandhill Advanced Biofuels, LLC, a developer of Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) anaerobic digestion projects located on dairy farms, comprised of four sites in Wisconsin. With two projects already operational and two more in advanced development, this acquisition adds a new element to our renewable energy supply mix.
Investing in low carbon intensity solutions for our customers is one of the ways we are driving toward our target of net-zero by 2050. In fact, we have a proven track record of what we call “greening the fleet” – that is, where possible, looking for opportunities to replace nonrenewable energy sources with renewable generation facilities. Leveraging RNG is one potential means of making such a switch.
What is RNG and how is it used?
Simply put, RNG is a natural gas derived from organic waste found in everyday life. When organic waste decomposes, it releases biogas into the atmosphere. We can capture that raw biogas and purify it to create RNG.
RNG has three main benefits: Firstly, its readily available, meaning it can be captured from various sources like compost, cow manure or wood waste. Secondly, while that organic waste would usually decay and create methane emissions contributing to Greenhouse Gases (GHG), by capturing the biogas and processing it into RNG, we essentially capture more GHGs than it would emit, so the fuel actually becomes carbon negative. And lastly, it is available 24/7 and isn’t hindered by intermittency.
The RNG produced from these dairy farms can be injected into the natural gas pipeline system, displacing carbon-based natural gas. As a result, RNG can bring much needed economic, renewable fuel solutions to our natural gas and transportation customers while also providing the local dairy farmers with additional revenue and supporting their efforts to manage waste and reduce GHG emissions.
Expanding our renewables portfolio
As entrepreneurs at heart, we are exploring green energy solutions and deepening our development expertise beyond wind, solar, and hydro. We feel it’s vital to tackle climate change head-on by embracing new technologies and adding alternative fuel strategies into our energy supply mix.
For more on Sandhill and how our company is investing in RNG as part our long-term strategy, read our press release or visit the Sustainability section of our website.
Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements included in this news release contain information that is “forward-looking” for purposes of applicable securities laws (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). The words “will”, “can” and similar expressions are often intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Specific forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding expected future growth and benefits of Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp.’s (“AQN”) RNG business. These statements are based on factors or assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a forecast or projection, including assumptions based on historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments. Since forward-looking statements relate to future events and conditions, by their very nature they require making assumptions and involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Readers are cautioned that although it is believed that the assumptions are reasonable in the circumstances, these risks and uncertainties give rise to the possibility that actual results may differ materially from the expectations set out in the forward-looking statements. Material risk factors include those set out in AQN’s Management Discussion & Analysis and Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2021, and in AQN’s Management Discussion & Analysis for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022, each of which is available on SEDAR and EDGAR. Given these risks, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of their dates. Other than as specifically required by law, AQN undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or information to reflect new information, subsequent or otherwise.