An Act Concerning the Reclassification of Trash-To-Energy Facilities as Class I Renewable Energy Sources - Fall

Advisor: Shadan Azali

Connecticut faces significant environmental challenges, including high asthma rates and vulnerability to climate change impacts such as rising sea levels and flooding. Current waste disposal and energy production methods—landfills and fossil fuel combustion—exacerbate these problems by generating greenhouse gases, air pollution, and nitrogen oxides. Landfills release methane, while transporting waste contributes additional carbon dioxide emissions. Fossil fuel combustion further contributes to local air pollution and global climate change.

Connecticut Raised House Bill No. 5118 proposes reclassifying waste-to-energy (WtE) facilities as Class I renewable energy sources, enabling them to receive renewable energy credits (RECs). By incentivizing WtE, the legislation aims to reduce landfill reliance and offset fossil fuel energy production. While potential reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution are modest, WtE represents a cost-effective strategy to address climate change and improve local air quality.

To implement the legislation effectively, our team developed a hypothetical scenario in which a coalition of municipalities in Fairfield County builds a low-emission thermal gasification WtE facility in Bridgeport. We designed the organizational structure, including an Executive Board, CEO, legal and administrative directors, and contracted operators. A financial plan was created, projecting construction costs of $107 million funded via 20-year municipal bonds, with RECs and electricity sales generating a projected $1.5 million surplus in the first year. A performance management system ensures environmental compliance, operational efficiency, safety, and community engagement. A master calendar outlines permits, contracts, and milestones for the facility’s first-year operations.

By expanding WtE production, this program provides a sustainable waste management solution, reduces emissions, and offers municipalities a financially viable approach to supporting renewable energy and combating climate change.

Learn more about the MPA-ESP Workshop in Applied Earth Systems Management.