The Vermont Public Service Board has issued a Certificate of Public Good approving Washington Electric Co-op's proposed expansion of its landfill methane generating facility at the state's largest landfill in Coventry. The PSB's Order was issued on September 17th, and authorizes the addition of a fifth generating engine at the plant, as well as a small expansion of the building and other related modifications.
The Coventry plant first began operation in 2005 and its generating capacity was previously increased in 2007. The facility is now generating almost two-thirds of all the electricity used by WEC's 10,000 member households and businesses in Orange, Washington and Caledonia Counties. The cost to WEC of this energy is significantly less than current market prices in the region, and the plant is the primary reason why WEC's members have not seen a rate increase in nine years and are not expected to for a few more.
In accordance with Vermont Statute, an electric cooperative must also get the approval of its members for such projects after receiving PSB approval. The WEC Board of Directors has authorized a vote for October 7, and information packets and vote by mail materials are being mailed to all members on Friday. WEC's members previously voted in favor of the original project and the first expansion by overwhelming margins.
Assuming member approval, construction will commence immediately after October 7, with the additional generating equipment expected to be in service in early 2009.
We're very pleased that the Public Service Board granted the approval, said WEC's General Manager, Avram Patt. We also appreciate the continuing support the Public Service Department has given to this project and its expansion and we look forward to the member vote on October 7th.. Because we're a co-op, it's fitting that our members who benefit from this project have the final say.