Hamilton RNG to develop a renewable natural gas facility in Ohio

Hamilton RNG is working to develop food waste digester projects to produce renewable natural gas (RNG) in Ohio and Kentucky.

Hamilton RNG, a joint venture between UGI Energy Services and Synthica Energy, is developing a digester in the Village of St. Bernard, Ohio — about five miles north of Cincinnati. The digester will process approximately 190,000 annual tons of food waste from nearby food manufacturers in an anaerobic digester. It is expected to generate approximately 250,000 MMBTUs (million BTUs) of pipeline-quality RNG each year that will be injected into a local natural gas pipeline on the regional distribution system. It is expected to be completed in the first half of 2023.

RNG projects reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions while increasing the use of renewable energy. This is done through anaerobic digesters, which allow for the transformation of food waste into renewable energy.

“For nearly 140 years, UGI has focused on providing safe, reliable energy delivery service to its customers and to the many communities it serves,” Robert Beard, UGI’s executive vice president – Natural Gas, said. “We are excited to announce this new partnership to develop pipeline-quality RNG in Ohio and Kentucky. Along with our Cayuga RNG partnership in upstate New York announced earlier this year, these projects reinforce our commitment to the development of renewable natural gas and sustainable energy, helping communities dramatically reduce their GHG emissions.”

Hamilton RNG is also in the process of developing other digester projects in Ohio and Kentucky.

“The benefits of organic food waste digestion are clear – environmental protection, local investment, and job creation,” Sam Schutte, Synthica CEO, said. “We are on the front end of a movement that is fusing technology with environmental consciousness and creating a mutually beneficial opportunity for businesses to create more eco-friendly footprints.”

There are currently no anaerobic digestion plants near Cincinnati, Schutte said.

“That means operating a food manufacturing plant in our region is more expensive than in places like Cleveland or Columbus because of the increased cost of hauling away byproducts. That puts Cincinnati at a distinct disadvantage when trying to attract and retain manufacturing businesses. Hamilton RNG’s St. Bernard plant will add a new chapter to the area’s storied manufacturing history, with a focus on environmental stewardship and building a greener future,” Schutte added.