Swanbank Renewable Energy Facility opens

A project to create renewable energy from waste was officially opened last month at the Swanbank Landfill, Queensland.

The Swanbank Renewable Energy Facility is a 1.1 MW landfill-gas power generation project. Owned and operated as a joint venture between LMS Energy (LMS) and Remondis Australia, the project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from waste deposited in landfill and create reliable base-load renewable energy 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

It is estimated that the project will generate 9000 MWh of renewable energy on average each year, powering more than 1200 homes in the region. The combustion of landfill gas from the facility is estimated to abate over 46,800 tonnes (CO₂e) of carbon each year.

“Renewable energy has an important role to play in Australia’s energy mix, but it must be considered in the context of our abundant resources,” noted LMS Chief Executive Officer John Falzon. “A balanced mix of energy generation is required, which includes coal, gas and renewables.”

LMS currently generates over 350,000 MWh of reliable base-load renewable electricity annually, while Remondis is supporting local communities associated with Swanbank project operations. Together, the companies are stimulating economic development, creating local jobs and contributing to the growth and diversity of the Ipswich region.

The opening of the facility was attended by important guests including Minister for Industry the Hon Ian Macfarlane and Ipswich Mayor Cr Paul Pisasale.