MIDDLESEX COUNTY UTILITIES AUTHORITY RENEWABLE NATURAL GAS

The Middlesex County Utilities Authority ("MCUA") recently closed on a $165 million loan from the NJ Water Bank to construct a new renewable natural gas ("RNG") facility to process and treat landfill gas from the County's existing landfill cells and supplying it to PSE&G's natural gas service facility near the Edward J. Patton Wastewater Treatment Plant in Sayreville, New Jersey. The RNG will be delivered to the utility through a new custody transfer metering and instrument station built in accordance with PSE&G standards.

This project represents a significant advancement in biogas conversion. By transforming landfill gas into useable RNG and supplying it to PSE&G's grid, MCUA has achieved a remarkable recycling milestone. The project turns  harmful Nox, VOCs and particulate matter byproducts into a valuable renewable fuel and earns Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) credits in the process. The MCUA has not only reduced its carbon footprint but also financed the project through low-cost loans, including $2 million in principal forgiveness. Additionally, the MCUA anticipates qualifying for an investment tax credit of up to 30% of eligible project costs, amounting to approximately $36.8 million. To secure this benefit, the MCUA is working closely with the federal government, making safe harbor payments, and establishing an apprenticeship program at the authority.

This remarkable project was made possible through the collaboration and dedication of everyone involved, including NJDEP permitting teams, I-Bank and MCUA staff, and especially the lead engineer, Michael J. Samuel, whose contributions were instrumental. Although Michael passed away before the construction of the project came to fruition, his vision and efforts remain a cornerstone of its success.