Dec 4 2008
NRG Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NRG) is developing a new biomass project at its Montville Generating Station in Uncasville, CT. NRG is enhancing one of the station's existing units to use biomass as a fuel source for 30 megawatts (MW) of the unit's 82-MW generating capacity. The facility currently is fueled by oil and natural gas. Biomass, which uses plant matter such as chipped wood to produce electricity, is a renewable source of energy that will help lower the facility's net carbon footprint.
“Montville marks NRG's fourth RepoweringNRG project in Connecticut,” said John Ragan, President of NRG's Northeast Region. “We are committed to developing new and environmentally responsible power generation, and to helping the state meet its increasing demand for cleaner alternative energy sources.”
This summer, NRG added 40 MW of ultra low-sulfur distillate fuel power generation at its Cos Cob site in Fairfield County bringing the plant's total output to 100 MW while reducing overall emissions from the site. Additionally, NRG and The United Illuminating Company, through their GenConn partnership, are developing a combined total of 400 MW of new peaking generation at NRG's existing sites in Middletown and Milford.
“Using biomass, together with fossil fuels, in our existing fleet is one of the quickest and most efficient ways to reduce carbon intensity. When this biomass project comes online, it will be another step in helping Connecticut reach its goal of creating 20 percent Class 1 renewable power generation by 2020,” said Michael Liebelson, Chief Development Officer&ndashLow-Carbon Technology, NRG Energy. “In addition to providing clean, renewable energy to Connecticut residents, we are obtaining the biomass from nearby foresters and saw mills, which will provide economic benefits to the region.”