RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - Middle Point Landfill's Limited Life Expectancy and Renewable Energy Projects Moving Forward

The life expectancy of Middle Point Landfill in Rutherford County is shorter than some may realize... That was Mike Classen, the General Manager of the landfill. However, there are things that can be done to extend the operational life of the landfill, which is what officials are working on now.

One major initiative is the development of a renewable natural gas energy plant. This facility aims to convert large quantities of naturally occurring gas from the landfill into pipeline-quality gas... As construction of the plant continues, contractors are working to implement pipeline that will connect to Atmos Energy. The overall goal is to have the gas conversion plant operational by the end of the first quarter of 2025.

Once completed, the gas produced will enter the Atmos pipeline and serve local industries and homeowners who use natural gas... This project is one of several that landfill representatives are working on to not only extend the life of the landfill, but to also contribute to sustainable energy practices in the community.

According to the EPA, "Landfill gas (LFG) is a natural byproduct of the decomposition of organic material in landfills. LFG is composed of roughly 50 percent methane (the primary component of natural gas), 50 percent carbon dioxide (CO2) and a small amount of non-methane organic compounds."

WGNS will continue to follow news on renewable energy in Rutherford County. Hear our full interview HERE.