Heller Secures $1 Million in Funding for Co-Generation Plant in Sparks

Press Release

Heller Secures $1 Million in Funding for Co-Generation Plant in Sparks

Today, U.S. Congressman Dean Heller (R-Carson City) secured $1 million in the Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill for fiscal year 2008 (H.R. 2641) for a renewable energy project. The funds would be used to construct a 1.0 megawatt co-generator to convert methane gas produced from the wastewater treatment plant into electricity for Reno, Sparks and most of Washoe County.

"With the growing demands for energy in our country, finding innovative solutions to our energy needs is critical. Every contribution helps, no matter the size. I am pleased to have the opportunity to work with the City of Sparks and Mayor Geno Martini to get this project funded," said Heller.

This project will create substantial operating efficiencies for the treatment plant, will reduce electrical demand on the regional power grid, and will result in more affordable and reliable sources of energy. Utilizing methane as a renewable energy supply, the co-generator unit will reduce the wastewater treatment plant's total electrical consumption by 20-30%.

"We really appreciate the leadership and support from Congressman Heller in securing funding for this very important project at the Truckee Meadows Water Reclamation Facility (TMWRF) which serves citizens throughout the Sparks and Reno area," said Sparks Mayor Geno Martini. "Not only will the co-generator help the environment, but it will also produce cost efficiencies for TMWRF as it continues to serve a fast growing region."

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