Ohio, October 16, 2025
A new innovative trend is emerging in Ohio where old landfills are being repurposed into sustainable sources of clean energy. This initiative aims to promote sustainability while reducing environmental hazards in local communities affected by these landfills. The transformation not only addresses waste management issues but also contributes towards cleaner air and energy solutions, positively impacting the health and wellbeing of residents.
Ohio Transforms Closed Landfills into Renewable Energy Sources
Ohio is leading the nation in converting closed landfills into renewable energy hubs, enhancing sustainability and reducing environmental hazards. This innovative approach not only repurposes unused land but also contributes to cleaner air and energy sources.
Recent Developments
In May 2025, Archaea Energy and Rumpke Waste & Recycling inaugurated two state-of-the-art renewable natural gas (RNG) plants in Wellston and Waverly, Ohio. These facilities capture methane gas from decomposing waste in landfills and convert it into RNG, providing cleaner energy compared to traditional fossil fuels. The combined capacity of these plants is sufficient to heat approximately 25,238 homes annually.
Additionally, a $129 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency is facilitating the expansion of solar farms on former landfill sites in the Greater Cleveland area. This initiative aims to add 28 megawatts of solar generation to a county central services facility and four former landfill sites, further promoting renewable energy in the region.
Background
Landfills, especially those that have been closed and capped, often remain underutilized due to health and environmental restrictions. By converting these sites into energy-producing facilities, Ohio is addressing environmental concerns while generating sustainable energy. This trend reflects a growing commitment to innovative solutions for waste management and energy production.
Benefits
Transforming closed landfills into renewable energy sources offers multiple advantages:
- Environmental Impact: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by capturing and utilizing methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
- Energy Production: Generates renewable energy, contributing to the state’s energy needs and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
- Economic Opportunities: Creates jobs and stimulates local economies through the development and operation of energy facilities.
- Land Reclamation: Repurposes unused or underutilized land, turning environmental liabilities into assets.
Conclusion
Ohio’s initiatives to convert closed landfills into renewable energy sources exemplify a forward-thinking approach to environmental stewardship and energy production. These projects not only mitigate environmental hazards but also provide sustainable energy solutions, setting a precedent for other regions to follow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of converting closed landfills into renewable energy sources in Ohio?
The purpose is to repurpose unused or underutilized land by transforming closed landfills into renewable energy hubs, enhancing sustainability and reducing environmental hazards.
What types of renewable energy are being produced from these landfill sites?
Ohio is producing renewable natural gas (RNG) and solar energy from former landfill sites. RNG is generated by capturing methane gas from decomposing waste, while solar energy is harnessed through solar farms installed on capped landfills.
How does converting landfills into energy sources benefit the environment?
Converting landfills into energy sources reduces greenhouse gas emissions by capturing and utilizing methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and generates renewable energy, contributing to cleaner air and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
What economic advantages does Ohio gain from these landfill-to-energy projects?
These projects create jobs, stimulate local economies through the development and operation of energy facilities, and provide sustainable energy solutions, potentially leading to cost savings for residents and businesses.
Can other regions adopt Ohio’s landfill-to-energy initiatives?
Yes, Ohio’s initiatives serve as a model for other regions to repurpose closed landfills into renewable energy sources, promoting environmental sustainability and energy innovation.
Key Features of Ohio’s Landfill-to-Energy Projects
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Renewable Energy Production | Conversion of landfill gas into renewable natural gas (RNG) and installation of solar farms on capped landfills to generate clean energy. |
| Environmental Benefits | Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by capturing methane and decreased reliance on fossil fuels, leading to cleaner air. |
| Economic Impact | Creation of jobs and stimulation of local economies through the development and operation of energy facilities, with potential cost savings for residents and businesses. |
| Land Reclamation | Repurposing of closed landfills into productive energy-generating sites, transforming environmental liabilities into assets. |
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Author: Construction FL News
The OHIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionohnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Ohio and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Ohio Construction Conference, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Ohio and the Ohio Home Builders Association, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
