A new landfill gas to renewable natural gas production facility opened in Florida, and the project brings local employment opportunities and partnerships while helping the Treasure Coast move toward fuel independence.
Nopetro Energy, a vertically-integrated turnkey producer, distributor and operator of energy solutions across North America, recently celebrated the grand opening of southern Florida’s first landfill gas (LFG) to renewable natural gas (RNG) production facility in Vero Beach.
RNG, a biogas and the lowest-carbon alternative fuel, is being produced by capturing and removing methane gas from the Indian River County landfill. The captured biogas undergoes a purification process and is then injected into Florida City Gas’ existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure and will reach customers from South Vero Corridor all the way to Indian River Shores. RNG is fully interchangeable with conventional natural gas and can be seamlessly distributed to customers, creating domestic, affordable and cleaner fuel for buses and trucks while creating cleaner air for the community.
“Opening this facility is a major step, not just for Nopetro’s growing natural gas production and distribution network, but for Indian River County,” said Jorge Herrera, CEO of Nopetro Energy. “We believe in building facilities that support and give back to the cities where they stand. This Vero Beach RNG facility is a catalyst for continued growth, resilience and energy independence, creating opportunities for families and businesses across the Treasure Coast.”
In just the first few weeks of operation, the new facility removed CO2 to purify the biogas to over 95% methane, exceeding the 90% standard for fueling local homes, vehicles and businesses with RNG. The facility’s construction period and ongoing production have also created jobs and vendor opportunities for area contractors, maintenance providers and local businesses.
“This partnership highlights the value of working with the private sector to bring innovation and investment to Indian River County. It’s a responsible use of resources that supports local families, strengthens our economy and ensures access to dependable energy,” said Indian River County Commission Chairman Joseph Flescher.
The Vero Beach facility was constructed in partnership with engineering, procurement and construction services firm Mead & Hunt, who have previous experience in the field.
In addition to its production arm, Nopetro operates 13 renewable gas fueling facilities across Florida and is actively expanding nationally. RNG is compressed into CNG and used to fuel transit and fleet operations; for example, Nopetro currently fuels the entire transit system in Central Florida via a partnership with the Central Florida Transit Authority. All Nopetro’s natural gas feedstock is produced via renewable sources, including landfills and wastewater treatment plants.