The Future of Renewable Natural Gas in Massachusetts
Blank, Shoshana.
2020
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Thesis (M.S.)--Tufts University, 2020.
Submitted to the Dept. of Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning.
Advisor: Ann Rappaport.
Committee: Penn Loh.
Keywords: Energy, and Climate change.
The Massachusetts Global Warming Solutions Act directs the Commonwealth to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions significantly by 2050. Renewable natural gas (RNG) ... read moreis a low-carbon fuel that can replace natural gas in the pipeline. National Renewable Energy Laboratory data on methane potential from waste feedstocks in MA was used to calculate the percentage of gas consumption that could be replaced by RNG and the emissions reductions. Energy experts were interviewed, and case studies were written on three RNG projects in New England to identify barriers and opportunities. RNG potential equals 1.7% of current annual gas consumption. Low feedstock availability and high capital costs are barriers. Massachusetts can pass legislation directing the Department of Public Utilities to approve RNG rate recovery. Utilities can pursue voluntary RNG programs and partner with wastewater treatment plants to develop projects. The Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard could be amended to include RNG pipeline injection.read less - ID:
- 05742586k
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